Knicks ticket prices are going up again.

Thanks to the first phase of the Madison Square Garden renovation and, perhaps, the addition of Carmelo Anthony, the Knicks raised ticket prices for this season by an average of 49 percent. Thanks to (they say) the second phase of that renovation, prices will go up again next year. Here's a bit of the press release via Steve Popper:

For the 2012-13 season, Knicks season ticket prices will increase an average of 4.9%, and Rangers will increase an average of 9.5%. Price increases are primarily focused on upper bowl seats, reflecting the new amenities and improved sightlines in the upper bowl. Knicks and Rangers season ticket holders will be contacted directly by their dedicated experience manager with specific information on their account in the coming weeks.

When fans return to The Garden for the 2012-13 seasons, the seating configuration in the upper bowl of the Arena will be completely transformed. The upper bowl will offer larger, more comfortable seating and significantly improved sightlines as the incline for the upper bowl will increase 17 degrees, moving fans seven to 10 feet, or nearly three rows, closer to the action. Season ticket holders will be relocated to new seats accordingly.

That's four POINT nine percent, by the way. I did a double take at that one (and by that I mean I switched identities with Orlando Jones).

Kind of a nuisance, but probably to be expected given the circumstances. You'll hardly notice those extra dollars missing from your wallet when you realize how SICK THESE SIGHTLINES ARE. You've never sighted lines like these. Incidentally, I have yet to attend a game since the first phase of the renovations. I'll be going to my first one this weekend. How different is it? What snacks should I eat?