The Knicks lost in overtime 121-118 to Oklahoma City in the debuts of Tracy McGrady, Sergio Rodriguez and Eddie House, but there was an excitement in the arena that hasn't been seen in recent years.

McGrady scored 26 points on an efficient 10-for-17 with five assists and four rebounds.

“I felt good going to the basket,” McGrady said. “I felt explosive.”

McGrady was received warmly my the New York crowd.

“I haven’t felt that good in a while, to really be received that way, to hear those chants,” McGrady said. “It really gave chills down my spine.”

This Garden was electric Saturday night for a star who is well beyond his prime. While the Cleveland crowd acted as if they were holding a moment of silence throughout overtime of LeBron vs. Carmelo two nights earlier.

The Garden should again be alive tomorrow night when the team honors the 1969-70 Championship team. Donnie Walsh has pointed to the incredible loyalty and buzz created by New York fans during the hard times. Real fans know how great things can be at the Garden during good times, but for 25 year olds like LeBron James and Chris Bosh it's nice to have a present day example of just how special the Mecca of Basketball can be.