1973 Again: Reed’s Second Finals MVP

Many remember Reed as the 1970 hero but forget he stood on top again in 1973. That year the Knicks returned and beat the Lakers 4-1 in the Finals (the Lakers again), with Reed earning his second Finals MVP.

By 1972-73 knee trouble had cut his regular-season load, yet in the playoffs he remained the spiritual and tactical core. He posted double-double-level numbers and clogged the lane on defense. On title night New York roared again—the franchise's second banner, Reed's second ring.

Between the two titles Reed's role shifted: from the do-everything core of 1970 to the defense-and-experience anchor of 1973. That evolution shows his IQ—knowing when to push, when to steady.

After 1973 injuries ate into his knees and his minutes fell. But those two rings secure him among the greatest Knicks ever.

Related Reading

• Willis Reed: The Man Who Walked Out Hurt, and the Knicks’ First Crown
• From Player to Coach: Reed’s Post-Playing Life
• The Defensive Anchor: How Reed Built the Knicks’ Iron Interior
• 2023 Curtain Call: Reed Passes, New York Lowers Its Flag
• 1970 NBA Finals MVP: Willis Reed (New York Knicks)