Mike D'Antoni's aim is to change the culture of the Knicks and develop players who will be part of their future.  He and his coaching staff have made limited progress toward that goal during the 2008-2009 season.

"I don't know what's going to happen in 2010. I can't plan for it," D'Antoni says. "I just know I live with these guys. My focus is on them. I want to wake up in 2010 and have a couple of the players we have now be the guys we want."

Wilson Chandler has emerged as a talented wing player who could grow into a key piece of the team's nucleus.  Danilo Gallinari showed promise during an injury-plagued rookie season.  Chris Duhon started the season strong, then seemed to hit a wall.  David Lee, who had his best season, and Nate Robinson, who had an up-and-down season, will both enter free-agency this summer.

The story details the coach's pre-game ritual, including reviewing scouting reports in his office while snacking on popcorn, Fig Newtons and Diet Coke.

Asked if he would relish proving wrong those who say he is an overrated coach who had a star-studded Suns roster, D'Antoni replies, "You're asking if I'm human?"