Are the Knicks one step closer? After reaching the NBA Playoffs for the first time in what seemed to be…ages, the Knicks had high hopes for the 2011-2012 NBA campaign, with Finals-chatter even coming in and out of the discussion of the Knicks’ future. After a rocky start, unfortuante injuries, Linsanity, and a firing of a coach later, the Knicks returned to the Playoffs for the second straight season, managing just one win against the Miami Heat. There are still a few loose ends that need to be tied this offseason, but with a Woodson’s Melo-centric offense, a team rejuvenated on defense thanks to DPOY Tyson Chandler, and perhaps a healthy Jeremy Lin, the expectations for Carmelo and the gotham city crew are still very high going into the 2012-2013 season. This aerial shot of the Jordan Melo M9 shows that much of the Melo M8 body will be carried over, but a redesigned midsole and exposed Flywire straps on the upper should make for an even smoother ride (for those who haven’t tried, the M8 was ridiculously comfortable). Your thoughts on the Knicks’ offseason approach in retaining Lin and getting in on the Dwight Howard trade talks? Give us your opinions and we’ll keep you updated when more of Melo’s next shoe surfaces. Photos: kumastock