Lemon LIVE at 5 | Did Donald Trump Really Jinx the Knicks? We Asked New Yorkers

Multiple fans interviewed by Don Lemon attributed the Knicks' disappointing loss in the previous game to Donald Trump's presence at Madison Square Garden. They referred to it as 'bad juju' and a 'damper on the building,' suggesting his attendance negatively impacted the team's performance. The host himself noted that 'people are very happy' Trump was not coming to the current game, 'even his own supporters,' due to the perceived negative effect.

A fan named Kesha stated, 'I mean, yes, but you know, you can't stop somebody from going to the game.' Another fan explicitly said, 'Of course, we know who. Come on. We know who. We know. I don't know why he here. Why was he here? Don't come back, though.' The host also observed, 'They weren't even able to open the other night. And now tonight they are able to open because the president is not coming. And you know what? Honestly, people are very happy about it, even his own supporters.'

The area around Madison Square Garden was heavily barricaded and secured, making it extremely difficult for pedestrians, media, and even local businesses to operate. Don Lemon and his crew struggled to navigate the streets, being redirected multiple times and unable to get close to the venue without proper credentials. This level of security, particularly noted after Trump's previous visit, significantly altered the typical game-day atmosphere.

Lemon described the situation as 'a nightmare because it's rush hour and then at rush hour you have all of these people who are trying to get into the game. And look at all these barricades. I mean, we're like we're two avenues away or like an avenue and a half away.' He also mentioned, 'These places like this? They weren't even able to open the other night.' A fan trying to get to a bar lamented, 'Everything's shut down. It's It's crazy. Think about all these bars. They could be making so much money on a Wednesday night.'

Despite the previous loss, perceived unfair officiating, and the chaotic environment, Knicks fans largely maintained a strong sense of optimism and loyalty. They expressed confidence in their team's ability to 'snap back' and win, often predicting 'Knicks in five' games. This optimism was coupled with frustration over the game's physicality and referee decisions, but it didn't dampen their overall belief in the team.

Kesha stated, 'I mean, I like the Knicks' chances tonight. I think they'll snap back.' Another fan declared, 'The bad karma is gone. Wu-Tang is playing. They're erasing the curse of Trump. We're going to be good. Tonight's going to be a blowout.' A fan from Jersey asserted, 'Knicks in five, baby. Terrible officiating. Knicks are the better team. They just want to extend the series.'