Great section for viewing only. You won't really have any intimacy with the court. You won't gain any appreciation for the size of the players. I think I've been spoiled by the few games I've sat down near the court. After that, it's hard to appreciate a section like this but I did enjoy sitting in such a small section with only four or five rows. I hate sitting with the masses of Knicks fans; there's always those few fans that drink to excess and enjoy cursing at the players and other fans.
If you're wearing a Celtics or Nets jersey, I would take caution when venturing into Madison Square Garden.

I saw the Knicks vs. the Orlando Magic. Still haven't seen a game vs. the Bulls, Lakers or Celtics but that day will come. I can never afford tickets to those games. But section 217 is affordable on most nights. We paid $200 for two seats which is a solid bargain at this arena. Everything is more expensive in New York! Common knowledge.

Whoever says that 'every seat is a great seat' is kind of true. I've been pretty happy with every seat I've had at Knicks games. 217 was awesome so have no worries when purchasing your tickets.