The 1991–92 NBA season was the 46th season of the National Basketball Association in New York City. In the offseason, the Knicks hired Pat Riley to take over as head coach, while acquiring All-Star forward Xavier McDaniel from the Phoenix Suns, and signing free agent Anthony Mason. Riley, who previously coached the Los Angeles Lakers two years ago had an impact, as the Knicks finished second in the Atlantic Division with a 51–31 record. Patrick Ewing was selected for the 1992 NBA All-Star Game. In the first round of the playoffs, the Knicks eliminated the Detroit Pistons in five games. In the semifinals, the Knicks faced off against the defending champion Chicago Bulls for the second straight year. The Knicks frustrated the Bulls and Michael Jordan with their physical play. The Knicks lost in seven games as the Bulls–Knicks rivalry was born.