New York Knicks: Why the 2012-13 Season Will Be the Best Since 1999

Here in August, we are just a few months away from the start of yet another NBA season, and fans of the New York Knicks have every reason to be excited about their team.

After a decade of futility, the Knicks have made the playoffs for the last two seasons, and are slowly regaining the form they had back in the 1990s.

Of course, things haven't been perfect so far in the Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony era.

Chemistry has been an issue, and due to coaching changes and a carousel at the point guard position—as well as injuries—the two have yet to mesh properly.

But now, heading into their first full season together—complete with a full training camp—the Knicks are set to have their best season since they last made the NBA Finals in 1999.

Despite their top-heavy cap situation, the Knicks have somehow managed to build a very solid supporting cast, including some familiar faces from that 1999 season.

Along with Marcus Camby and Kurt Thomas, the Knicks have also brought in Raymond Felton, Ronnie Brewer and Jason Kidd, as well as bringing back J.R. Smith and Steve Novak—two key bench players.

Just a year ago, this was a team with no defense, and offense with players who couldn't play with each other.

Now, they have the makings of a top 10 defense, and an offense that will run a lot smoother with three pass-first point guards on the roster.

Last season, the Knicks broke their playoff losing streak by winning game four against the Miami Heat, but this year they'll be set to break another streak—winning their first playoff series in 14 years.

This roster has a special feel about it; it's filled with old-school New York players who will bring the toughness and will to win that fans have been craving for so long.

Last year was fun what with Linsanity and all, but this is a team that is serious about winning a title.

Players have taken a pay-cut to be here for a reason, and barring any major injuries, their decision to sacrifice their salary to be in New York will be justified.

Leading the way for the Knicks will be Carmelo Anthony, and by the looks of his record-breaking performance so far at London 2012, he is just the frontman the Knicks need.

The star small forward feels his "time is coming," and if he can keep up that level of play, he may just be on to something.

Whether you believe they're a genuine title-contender or not, if you're a Knicks fan you should be excited about your team next season.

After that terrible decade of basketball, this is undoubtedly the best squad New York has had for a while, and one of the best in the Eastern Conference.