No, Marbury is not a cancer. There's a reason for this 8-8 start, and it has nothing to do with Marbury not playing.
Reason #1- No more Isiah Thomas: Isiah Thomas was one of the worst GMs and coaches in franchise history. Every second, he seemed to make another stupid trade that kept burying the Knicks under.
Reason #2- No more Eddy Curry: Eddy Curry is the worst defensive center in the NBA, and arguably one of the worst centers in the NBA period. Having Zach Randolph and now David Lee start at center is a huge upgrade.
Reason #3- Jamal Crawford and Zach Randolph helped us win the first 6 games of the season: You may not realize this, but the Knicks are just 2-3, after trading Crawford and Randolph. They were a big reason for the Knicks' early success.
Reason #4- The Knicks have had one of the easiest schedules in franchise history: Look at the list of crippled teams the Knicks beat:
1. The no real center, formerly 15-67 Miami Heat team.
2. The no defense, rebuilding Bobcats
3. The no Gilbert Arenas, No Brendan Haywood Wizards
4. The no Gilbert Arenas, No Brendan Haywood Wizards again
5. The rebuilding Memphis Grizzlies
6. The D league Oklahoma City Thunder
7. The no Deron Williams Jazz
8. The no Stephen Jackson or Monta Ellis Warriors.
Reason #5- Quentin Richardson is playing good for once in his life: Richardson was a cancerous player, the last three years as a Knick. He averaged 8 points, on 35% shooting, AS A STARTER, on TWO of his last 3 years. He was also very injury prone and out of shape. Richardson is playing some of his better basketball we've seen.