Knicks Journal Heads to Aruba!

"Knicks Journal" will be looking to enjoy wearing summer-like apparel this week, as sported well by Wilson Chandler above.

Just as the Knicks take advantage of the New York City blizzard to ice out the Miami Heat, Knicks Journal will be looking to escape the cold as I venture to Aruba for the week!

Be well Knicks fans---be sure to look out for posts checking in on the Knicks' progress throughout the week.

NBA Fans Have Amore for Amar'e!

Congratulations to Amar'e Stoudemire, who was voted in as a starting forward, representing the Eastern Conference in the NBA All-Star team.

Stoudemire's surge in fan votes was largely due to the Knicks' heavy campaigns in the final weeks of voting to help him edge out Kevin Garnett for the starting nod.

He is also the first Knick to start in the NBA All-Star game since Patrick Ewing in 1992.

Congrats, Amar'e!

Knicks Officially "Beat the Heat"

After nearly a week-long trend on Twitter, "#beattheheat," the Knicks officially did it, most likely to the big surprise of LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.

The Knicks (giving off positive vibes from the get-go) led early, but more importantly, showed enough fight and grit throughout the entire game to be able to contend until the end.

Although Wade scorched the Knicks for 34 points, Danilo Gallinari and his teammates pestered James enough to force him to endure a 7 for 24 night from the field (though he managed 24 points).

James, booed thoroughly every time he touched the rock, has seemed to have fully embraced the "villain" role assigned to him this season, playing with a grimace on his face as he pushed the Knicks on defense and physically shoved them away while on offense.

Ultimately, the "good guys" won--Amar'e Stoudemire led the way with 24 points. However, the real heroes for the Knicks were Gallinari and rookie surprise Landry Fields, who hit back-to-back three point goals to seal the victory as the Knicks pulled away with a 93-88 win.

Gallinari, who led the defensive surge against James, also added 20 points. Fields continued to be an all-around sensation, contributing 19 points, 13 rebounds, and 6 assists.

Tracy Morgan and Piers Morgan (no relation) took in tonight's game, as did Carrie Underwood, Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz, as well as Magic Johnson. Kanye West, who also was in attendance, reportedly followed media inside Stoudemire's post-game press conference.

Do NBA Fans Have "Ownership" Of Favored Team's Players?

**This piece was written by Rhonda Dearborn, the newest contributor at Knicks Journal.**

Recently, there was a debate on Twitter amongst fans who follow the popular “The Knicks Blog Radio” show hosted by Anthony Donahue. Does Carmelo Anthony, in some transcendent way “belong” in a Knicks uniform? Was he destined to lead the Knicks to a championship? Do fans of the ‘Bockers already feel a sense of ownership towards the hometown kid?

Interestingly enough, Chauncy Billups of the Denver Nuggets talked last week about the ephemeral nature of fan loyalty to players. He suggested fans get upset when players ask for trades, but then do not care as much when teams simply trade away players.

When asked about the Denver fans booing Melo at home, Billups told NBA Fanhouse,, "I hate to see him going through that. But those are die-hard fans, man...They're getting the message that they're getting, and they don't appreciate that.

He intimated that the loyalty isn’t always there for guys who have won for teams in the past.

“Everybody wants him to be loyal to (Denver) but everybody thought I was going to be in Detroit forever (before being traded in November 2008 to Denver). Nobody cared about them not being loyal to me... It's a double standard.''

There are certain players that are identified with a franchise and are literally the essence of what that team comes to be about: Larry Bird and the Celtics, Magic Johnson and the Lakers, and David Robinson and the Spurs. You can picture their face in your mind; you see the uniform, the championship banners, and the associated city.

Patrick Ewing is the embodiment of what the New York Knicks franchise should be recognized for: toughness, work ethic, heart and loyalty. When he was traded to the Supersonics in 2000, many fans considered it sacrilege and what is now the “curse” that has plagued the team up until this current 2010-2011 season. When thinking of him, however, this outrage should never come to mind:

While people follow sports for different reasons, many feel a true connection with the players who wear their team colors. Whether it be character, heart or charisma, there is a magical bond that wouldn’t mean much if the team were losing and if the player weren’t successful. The magic of sports comes from those very moments when a fan gets to high five his idol after a meaningful play, when a player points to the stands and pumps his fist after a win, or when the fan gets to stand in the same stadium as his favored team and drink in the rarified air of playoff runs, dramatic overtime wins and heartbreaking, gut-wrenching losses that end a season.

Fans like to think that all this is “meant to be,” a preconceived set of circumstances that led that player to don that uniform at that point in time to make that connection with the fans and be “theirs” for life. If there weren’t those feelings of a connection, what would sports really amount to other than a business?

Many would argue that the business of such sports, as well as their lists of rules and regulations, make this magic that much more difficult to realize. Less and less do we see players stay in one uniform for the life of their career. Can any single team’s fans claim Shaquille O’Neal as their own?

When a player is traded after years of service to a team, it is a sad day for the true fan. While professional sports is a business, the magical, transcendent connection between player and fan cannot be dismissed. Winning would be empty without it.

Who are the players and moments that struck a chord with me in my lifetime? While casual fans will remember John Starks from “the dunk,” it’s difficult to define him by one moment, as he wore his heart on his sleeve each and every game he took the court for the New York Knicks. Other memorable moments include all the times he came out with the mask to protect an already broken nose, or any time he pointed to the “NEW YORK” on his jersey as a sign of pride and unity with the fans. (Any Knick who does this and deserves to do so is a hero to me!)

Patrick Ewing, after winning the Eastern Conference Finals against the Pacers in ’94, standing on the scorer’s table to salute the “Garden Faithful”, hugging and exchanging emphatic high-fives with passionate fans was one of those magic times that will always resonate with Knick fans. Larry Johnson’s four-point play; every ounce of brute force Anthony Mason displayed on the court and the sacrifice and fight Charles Oakley brought forth each and every night are all part of the pantheon of indelible images lodged in the collective consciousness of Knick fans.

These players (and their most glorious moments) are often associated with what fans should always remember when thinking about the New York Knicks.

Is it inevitable that Carmelo Anthony will be a Knick? Do the fans already “own” ‘Melo in any way; have we (the fans) the right to even stake that claim? I think it is way too early for that. Let’s get him in that orange and blue uniform. Let him make his own connection with Knicks fans; win some games with a final shot at the buzzer, pump his fist in the air at the fans after a crucial bucket, grab his uniform and point to those words, “NEW YORK.” We’ve got to see the sweat, love, and magic connection before we can truly say: ‘Melo was meant for us.

Raymond Felton: Could the Knicks' Recent Slump Cost Him an All-Star Nod?

Raymond Felton, along with Amar’e Stoudemire, has filled the city of New York back up with basketball excitement as the Knicks are off to one of their most promising starts in years.

Despite a recent six-game losing streak, the Knicks still hold the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference. The team’s resurgence is obviously largely due to their new one-two punch.

Though Stoudemire is the true superstar who arrived proclaiming “the Knicks are back,” it’s been Felton who has turned out to be the team’s architect for success.

Exceeding all expectations so far, Felton has been an excellent floor general, having been able to effectively get his teammates involved and score with ease himself almost all season long. His numbers have also seen substantial increases, as Felton is obviously reaping the benefits of playing in head coach Mike D’Antoni’s offense.

Though D’Antoni is famous for transforming Steve Nash into an MVP, he is quickly on his way to elevating Felton into an All-Star as well.

Felton has been the type of player who has made his teammates visibly better (Wilson Chandler, for instance) and is also a guy who is never afraid to take the big-time shots.

Prior to the team’s most recent skid, between Felton’s impressive play, the Knicks’ winning ways and the obvious advantage of playing in one of basketball’s biggest markets, one would think Felton could have been a shoe-in to represent the Eastern Conference during the All-Star game.

However, it’s no coincidence that as of late when Felton began to slump, so did his team.

While his 13.8 point average over the Knicks’ six-game losing streak has been similar to his career scoring average prior to arriving in New York, it’s been Felton’s elevated play that has, ironically enough, elevated the Knicks this season.

In order to succeed and compete at such a high level, the Knicks need Felton to be one of the NBA’s better point guards. That’s of course a very tough task to take on, but so far, Felton has aced the test.

However, the Knicks have certainly been struggling amid Felton’s own individual slump. Through the team’s recent slide, Felton has shot less than 31 percent from the field. His clutch play has been key to what has made the Knicks relevant again. At the same token, if his play continues to skid, the Knicks become irrelevant again just as quickly.

And if the Knicks’ success goes down the drain, so will Felton’s chances of making the All-Star team. It’s not a coincidence that the better Felton plays, the better the Knicks do, too.

The Knicks ride and die with none other than Felton, not Stoudemire. Though Stoudemire may be the team’s obvious and natural star, it’s Felton’s presence and extra boost that has made the Knicks a winning squad.

NBA coaches (voters for the All-Star team’s bench) often reward winners, as even players with less than All-Star caliber statistics will make the team, as long as they are influencing their team’s win percentage. In the same respect, it will not matter how well a player is performing if it is not reflected in his team’s record.

Should the Knicks continue to struggle, Felton could be in the same boat as the Warriors’ Monta Ellis (as well as the same boat Ellis’ Warriors teammate and former Knick David Lee was almost in last season).

While Ellis’ individual numbers suggest he is one of the NBA’s best guards this season, his team is still playing poorly (underachieving, perhaps), so it’s likely he will not be recognized for his own fantastic performance.

Last season, Lee, who was having a 20 and 10-ish season for an unimpressive Knicks squad, was also almost left off the team before NBA Commissioner David Stern named him as a replacement for the injured Allen Iverson.

Stoudemire has taken New York by storm with his MVP-type season and is in no way going to be overlooked. In fact, with his team still holding a winning record (and the Knicks in full pursuit of getting their fans to vote with ongoing fantastic campaigns), Stoudemire (and his star persona) may very well be named a starter when the NBA announces its All-Star game starters on Thursday night.

Even if Felton were to break out of his individual slide, it needs to show in the Knicks’ record in order for him to be selected as an All-Star reserve. With the entire city still pumped up, it will be hard to keep the Knicks’ full tandem off the All-Star squad if the men donning orange and blue are winning.

Although Felton has seemingly even more of an impact on the Knicks’ success than Stoudemire, he does not possess that same star persona and/or popularity that Stoudemire has played years to build. Because of this, Felton’s All-Star chances will be weighed against those of Ray Allen (a nine-time all-star) of the Eastern Conference-leading Celtics and Joe Johnson (a four-time all-star) of the Hawks, both of whose teams have better records than the Knicks.

Allen and Johnson obviously have the familiarity and experience factors in their favor, but it is Felton who has the element of shock and surprise in his. The storyline of Felton helping the Knicks rise from the ashes make him a more exciting All-Star selection than the two safer latter choices.

The key to Felton’s All-Star hopes is obviously getting his team back on track. Though slumps are something every team goes through (especially when facing teams like the Spurs and Thunder), it’s time for Felton to rise up again to renew hope that the Knicks are in no way a flop.

With a more successful team will naturally come better statistics and even more recognition for Felton, who still has hopes of joining his partner-in-crime, Amar’e Stoudemire, in Los Angeles for All-Star weekend for the very first time.

Knicks Have Heartbreaking Weekend Against Spurs and Thunder

With the Spurs obtaining revenge on the Knicks for a loss earlier in the season with a 101-92 victory Friday night, and Kevin Durant (and the Thunder) breaking the Knicks’ hearts with a 101-98 win Saturday, the team is now suffering a six game losing streak.

Though losing to these two teams is nothing to be ashamed of, the matchups came at a particularly tough time for the Knicks, as they had already lost four straight. Coincidentally, however, the team played better against the two Western Conference powerhouses than they did against any other team during the losing streak.

The Knicks’ defense against the Spurs was probably among the best defense the team has displayed all-season long. By pestering and holding the Spurs to just 101 points, the Knicks would have normally put themselves (one of the NBA’s highest scoring teams) in position to win.

However, as good as their defense may have been, that is perhaps how out of sorts the Knicks’ offense was.

Wilson Chandler, the Knick who has been emerging into somewhat of a go-to guy, continued his slump as he was relegated to the bench. The new assignment did not seem to help, as he shot 3 for 10. Though he returned to the starting lineup against the Thunder, Chandler did not fair much better, shooting 2 of 8 in just 18 minutes of play.

Amar'e Stoudemire, who has also struggled from the field recently, had his string of 26 straight 20+ point games snapped. He scored 18 points in each of the two games against the Spurs and Thunder. His continued trouble with the officials (or officials' troubles with him, depending which way you look at it) did not help the Knicks.

Although Raymond Felton fought his way to a team-leading 23 points against the Spurs, he shot just 8 for 21. Against the Thunder, he still struggled, scoring just 10 points making just 5 of 16 from the field.

Despite his struggles, it was in fact Felton who took the Knicks’ final shot against the Thunder with the game tied at 98. Throwing up a shot with over six seconds left, Felton’s miss gave Durant enough time to convert on a dagger of a three-point field goal to put the Knicks away.

While the Knicks played under par through the first four games of their turbulent losing streak, loses to the Spurs and Thunder (two teams that the Knicks had beaten already, this season, in fact) may have been expected.

The pleasant surprise, however, was how resilient the Knicks played after coming off of four straight loses. In both games, the Knicks put themselves in fair enough position to win.

Nevertheless, a loss is a loss and all the team can do is build upon experience and learn from any mistakes that may have occurred. The Knicks will have an easier assignment on their hands as they look to bounce back at home again John Wall and the Wizards Monday night.

Which Ray Will Get the All-Star Nod?

via NBA.com

On the basis of stats, I’d give Felton the slight leg up. But what about intangibles? Ah, here it gets tricky. Allen is part of the defending conference champs and Boston currently leads the East. Winning has to count for something. The Knicks are mired in a bit of a slump, but they are in the playoff picture, checking in at sixth and have made pro basketball at Madison Square Garden relevant again. That can’t be discounted in the world’s largest media market.

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The above snippet is taken from an interesting read from Art Garcia highlighting a choice NBA coaches may be faced with in the coming weeks: Raymond Felton or Ray Allen for a spot on the All-Star team. Which "Ray" will they choose?

While neither will start, the race for perhaps what will be the Eastern Conference All-Star team's final spot is tight. Though Garcia does give Felton the advantage regardless, it cannot be ignored that if Felton (and the Knicks) weren't in the midst of a slump, it may be an even easier decision.

With Carmelo Anthony not (yet, perhaps) donning orange and blue, Felton has stepped up this season as Amar'e Stoudemire's partner in crime as the two continue their quest to reignite New York City with hope for basketball success. As of the official midway point of the NBA season, he is averaging 17.6 points, 8.8 assists, and 1.8 steals.

Allen, the well respected veteran and already nine-time all-star, has averaged 17.5 points and hit nearly 47% of his three point shots this season as he's helped lead the Celtics to an Eastern Conference-leading 32-9 record.

With Derrick Rose and Rajon Rondo already likely to occupy All-Star roster spots at the point-guard position, Felton will have to pick up the pace again if he wants to regain momentum for a spot of his own.

As Garcia begins to allude, helping carry his team to some extra victories along the way will certainly aid Felton's case. In 2006, the then 40-8 Detroit Pistons saw four of their key players reach All-Star status, as Ben Wallace, Chauncey Billups, Richard Hamilton, and Rasheed Wallace were all selected to represent the Eastern Conference.

Felton and the Knicks will look to break out of their slump as the team visits San Antonio to take on the Spurs, a team they have already beaten this season.

Amar'e Stoudemire Still Lacking a Right Hand Man?

Howard Beck's thorough and telling evaluation of the Knicks at the halfway point of the season explored the team's highs and lows, and ups and downs of the season. As the team begins to grow, there may be much room for various improvements. But for me, one thing stuck out in particular.

via The New York Times

“We don’t have a lot of go-to guys,” Coach Mike D’Antoni said after Thursday’s chilly practice at the Spurs’ arena. “We have a lot of ball movement and stuff, and we’ve got to get back to that. And we will.”

It was not a specific call for change — or a suggestion to trade for Anthony — but it was an admission: The Knicks, lacking a reliable No. 2 scorer, are vulnerable to shooting slumps and anything that disrupts Stoudemire’s game.

“It becomes a tough game,” Stoudemire said, adding, “In order for us to win, we have to have a team effort.”

It's been clear that the key to winning for the Knicks is the all around contributions of its players. After failing to sign a second superstar last summer to pair up with Stoudemire, depth was bound to be a strength.

When the offense of the likes of Danilo Gallinari, Wilson Chandler, and Raymond Felton (or at least two of the three) is on, the team is a very tough one to beat. The intangibles of Landry Fields, and defense of Ronny Turiaf, have also been added bonuses this season.

In a perfect world, all of these players will completely hone their skills and contribute to the fullest. Of course, when that does in fact happen, the Knicks often win. However, that's obviously not always the case.

Which of these players (and their contributions, in addition to Stoudemire's) is most key to the team's success? Is it the offense and playmaking ability of Felton, who was playing "Frazier-like," as Knicks' legend and broadcaster Walt Frazier noted last month? Is it the defense of Turiaf, who has proven to be a spark plug for the Knicks on a consistent basis?

Perhaps the most crucial thing for the Knicks is the increased offense of (a hopefully more consistent in the future) Chandler, whose scoring this season is proving he could become more than simply a career complementary player.

Nevertheless, the assertion from Coach D'Antoni that the Knicks are lacking go-to players (even while Chandler may very well be developing into one) is noteworthy for a very specific reason. With the team beginning to skid (currently on a four game losing streak, with two games coming up against Western Conference powerhouses Spurs and Thunder), perhaps it's finally time (as Beck merely begins to suggest) for Donnie Walsh to make that extra push for Carmelo Anthony.

While before, a trade for Anthony may have shaken up the team for the worse, his presence may instead now provide a tremendous boost to a Knicks team that very well could be returning home, unfortunately reeling, on a six game losing streak.

Suns Give Knicks Dose of Their Own Medicine in MLK Day Loss

A young fan in section 58 of Madison Square Garden began to play Monopoly on his Ipad, as if there was nothing else better to do.

Surely, the way the Knicks have played in their last two games, playing Monopoly may have in fact been more entertaining (and perhaps even less frustrating) than watching the men in orange and blue.

Following a loss to the Kings in which the Knicks looked purely exhausted Friday night, the team was looking to bounce back during their annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day matinee, this time against the Phoenix Suns.

Unfortunately, the Suns proved to be the Knicks' kryptonite as they took the victory by giving the Knicks a dose of their own medicine.

Having coached the system (and many of the Suns' players) for so many years, one would think Coach D'Antoni would know how to beat the Suns' rapid-fire offense by recognizing and exploiting certain flaws.

Unfortunately for the Knicks, the Suns did just that. The Suns were able to outrun the Knicks throughout the game. Although the game was close, the Knicks did not seem to have enough extra push to pull away with a lead large enough to win.

Ironically enough, the Knicks were beat by the Suns' older legs (literally). The Suns proved that perhaps classic never dies, with Steve Nash, Grant Hill, and Vince Carter all leading the way.

Nash recorded a near triple-double with 15 points, 11 assists, and 8 rebounds. Carter led the way with a season-high 29 points, and Hill added 25.

The all around solid attack was too much for the Knicks, who were led by Amar'e Stoudemire and his season-high 41 points.

In addition to receiving 23 points from Wilson Chandler, the Knicks were also boosted (but obviously not boosted enough) by the return of Danilo Gallinari, who previously missed six games due to a knee injury. Gallinari showed no signs of rust, dashing to the foul line multiple times with ease, shooting 8 for 9 from the charity stripe on his way to 17 points.

The ageless Nash was as good as ever, drawing fouls and getting his teammates the ball for a seemingly endless amount of open looks.

The Knicks' own budding point guard, Raymond Felton, who has previously outplayed the likes of Chris Paul and Chauncey Billups this season, could match Nash's greatness. Though he did have 13 assists, Felton followed up a 2 of 15 shooting performance against the Kings with a still less than stellar 3 of 13 from the field against the Suns.

At such a crucial and transitional point in the season, it's vitally important Felton does not become as run down as Chris Duhon did during his two seasons with the Knicks.

Felton has looked exhausted as of late, but D'Antoni has shown no signs of desiring to slow him down. Felton has been praised (sometimes more than Stoudemire) as the reason for the Knicks' early success this season, so if D'Antoni wants to keep that same success up, perhaps it's time to grant Felton some extra time on the bench. Roger Mason Jr. and Andy Rautins have been noted as potential bench warmers ready to spell Felton at the point.

Amar’e Stoudemire: The Rodney Dangerfield of NBA All-Stars?

**This piece was written by Rhonda Dearborn, the newest contributor at Knicks Journal.**

On the face of it, Amar’e Stoudemire and Rodney Dangerfield are as far apart as two people can be. One is a thoroughbred athlete in the prime of his career, proving his detractors wrong and turning around an erstwhile losing franchise with his every block, dunk and supportive shout-out to a teammate. The other was (unfortunately now deceased) an uproarious comedian and actor, famous for self-deprecating humor. His catchphrase was the always guffaw-inducing “I tell ya, I get no respect.”

Besides both having a connection to the Jewish faith, the two couldn’t be more contrary in looks, demeanor, or the way each of them resonates with different segments of society. However, looking beyond the surface, we can see that they both had tough roads to hoe, each coming from difficult childhoods and having to overcome challenges to get to the top of their respective vocations.

More recently, it has become quite apparent that despite being a three-time NBA All-Star, “Rookie of the Year”, an Olympian, as well as a very strong candidate for this year’s MVP award, he does not seem to get the benefit of the doubt from referees. The so-called “Jordan rules” have yet to apply. No star treatment for Amar’e!? What an outrage!

When he receives his league leading 13^th technical foul (having just received his twelfth in the Knicks' loss to the Suns on Monday, tying him with Dwight Howard for the league lead), it wouldn’t be too surprising to see Stoudemire turn to his bench, throw his hands in the air and shout, “I tell ya, I get no respect.”

While some of these fouls are certainly warranted, (even under the old standards for calling technical fouls), the new “more respect for the game” mentality has impacted Amar’e negatively. These new rules, flawed in design and intent, are so subjective and inconsistently applied; it puts in stark relief the ways in which certain players are given special treatment versus others, who are perhaps more “expendable.” In several instances, Stoudemire has been given technical fouls for simply clapping his hands. Clapping hands. . . really? While the inanity goes on, we still see other stars such as Paul Pierce complain equally or more vociferously, only to be given a free pass. Why?

Amar’e is currently averaging a career high in personal fouls at 3.7 a game this season, with a career average of 3.5. One would think the current co-captain of the NBA franchise that calls the “World’s Most Famous Arena” its home would garner a little more of that “special treatment” we so often get a glimpse of whenever the likes of LeBron James, Dwayane Wade or Kobe Bryant make their way to the Garden. Somehow this treatment (or lack there of) reminds me of another superstar who also wore the orange and blue and was a perennial all-star that led his team season-in and season-out…he didn’t get much respect either…but that’s another story.

There have been several games where the Knicks have suffered a scoring drought and have looked uneven; limited even, with Stoudemire forced to watch and root his team on from the bench due to foul trouble. Some of these instances where he has had to sit have been extensive, including the Knicks' January 17th matchup with the Jazz in Utah. That same occurrence may very well have cost the Knicks the opportunity to win that game.

As we have all witnessed, Amar’e Stoudemire came to New York, proudly proclaiming, “The Knicks are back!” He has backed up every word by his actions on and off the court. He has surprised many and converted doubters to true believers. Knick fans are energized, our passions ignited; we are enamored by Amare’s leadership and personality. He has embraced the city, the fans and the weight of the enormous expectations with which this franchise is encumbered. Previously knocked for his inability to lead, he is truly the leader that the naysayers said he could never be. Maybe the respect is starting to come.

Ultimately, it may require head coach Mike D’Antoni to step up, take the financial hit and forcefully vent to the media proclaiming his All-Star power forward and MVP candidate doesn’t get the respect he deserves. The officials have targeted him unfairly.

Pat Riley would do it. Jeff Van Gundy would also come to the defense of his All-Star. Come on D’Antoni, say it: “Amar’e. . . I tell ya, he gets no respect.”

Knicks Journal Welcomes Rhonda Dearborn!

Knicks Journal is proud to announce the addition of its newest contributing writer, Rhonda Dearborn.

Rhonda is a devoted fan whose passion for the Knicks is sure to constantly shine through her contributions. Having following the team since the 1990's, her favorite current Knick is none other than STAT himself, but she still cites the gritty Anthony Mason as her favorite from the team's former glory days.

Aside from following the Knicks, Rhonda enjoys working, spending time with her two kids, and politics. Music fans should also note she calls herself a "Jack White fanatic."

Please welcome Rhonda to the staff! Knicks Journal is pleased to have her aboard.

Carmelo Anthony Trade Rumors: Exactly Which Knicks Would Need to Be Dealt?

The Carmelo Anthony trade rumors continue to drag on. As the Nets still appear to be the favorable trading partner for the Nuggets (not necessarily the preferred destination of Anthony), the Knicks may be looking to beef up their own offer.

ESPN’s Chris Broussard is reporting that the latest developments have the Knicks talking with the Nuggets and Grizzlies regarding a potential three team deal—with disgruntled guard O.J. Mayo packing his bags for Denver.

Though the Knicks are still searching for that extra asset (even if it may not currently be on the team already), the main components of any Knicks offer are set—some variation or combination of Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari and/or Landry Fields.

Assuming a deal to send Anthony to play in his hometown can and will be agreed upon, which of the Knicks will be outgoing in return?

Although Anthony, a true superstar, stands to elevate the quality of the team, Donnie Walsh has publicly stated that re-signing Chandler for next season was a main priority. Gallinari has previously been declared “the best shooter” Mike D’Antoni’s ever seen. Finally, Fields, a second round phenom, has been the surprise rookie of the NBA this season.

Chandler is en route to the breakout season of his career. His overall game has been improving tremendously as he plays beside Amar’e Stoudemire and Raymond Felton. Through stronger lockdown defense and an improved long-range jump shot, Chandler is averaging career highs in nearly every category. In fact, he has been just as important as Stoudemire and Felton to the team’s success this season.

While the Knicks would obviously prefer to keep Chandler, in order to pair him as a starting forward next to Anthony, his strong play is also what makes him the team’s most valuable asset.

Chandler’s outbreak is making him increasing attractive to Denver, so it’s likely he would be a centerpiece (besides Anthony, and perhaps Mayo) of any potential trade. If he were in fact the Nuggets’ primary preference, the Knicks would be forced to choose between sending either Gallinari or Fields along with Chandler.

That decision may not be as obvious for the Knicks as many might think. Though Gallinari is of the purest of shooters and furthermore, a natural scorer, there’s also a chance he may be as effective with Stoudemire, Anthony and Felton all in town.

The Knicks reportedly like Gallinari’s lengthy figure and view him as the power forward in D’Antoni’s offense next to Anthony at small forward. Besides his height, however, Gallinari does not possess the aggressiveness that Chandler has necessary to hold his own at the four position.

That is precisely the first reason why the Knicks may be smart to send Gallo (along with Chandler) to Denver, as opposed to Fields.

Though a prominent scorer in college, Fields’ strengths on the Knicks have come from his intangibles and play off the ball. A solid defender, the rookie from Stanford has also demonstrated intelligence and promising instincts that should only prove to get better as Fields matures as an NBA player.

The fact that he leads all NBA guards (not just rookies) in rebounding makes him that much more valuable to the constantly board-stricken Knicks.

Overall, Fields appears as though he could contribute more widely, and in fact can accomplish his own scoring conveniently within the means of the Knicks offense (as he does well already).

The all around games of Chandler and Fields have continued to make them perfect complementary pieces in a Knicks offense that already has many scorers.

Primarily a scorer (even though more so than Fields), Gallinari is also due for a contract extension much earlier than Fields.

The play of Chandler and Fields help run the well oiled machine that is the New York Knicks. That same Knicks squad, however, has more or less been able to replace and/or make up for the missing offense that comes from Gallinari, who is out nursing a knee injury.

There are concerns that adding Anthony to the Knicks at such a time where the team’s play is at such a high will disrupt the chemistry and dynamic. That certainly could be true, as he is quite the dominating offensive force.

That being said, while it would be a shame to see Wilson Chandler leave New York as his talents continue to explode, the transition of adding Anthony and subtracting Chandler may easier with Fields (not Gallinari) in tow.

Trying to configure an offense that includes Carmelo Anthony and Danilo Gallinari (in addition to Stoudemire, Felton, etc.) may prove to be even more difficult, rather than having the ultimate role player in Landry Fields in the lineup to help smooth things along.

Knicks To Get Visit From Tyreke Evans and Sacramento Kings

The Knicks will be hosting the Sacramento Kings at MSG tonight. Though the Kings have lost 12 straight road game, they will be looking to avenge those losses as team star and 2010 "Rookie of the Year" Tyreke Evans returns from an injury that has kept him out a little longer than a week.

Evans has the build of a classic shooting guard and is normally able to score at will. After averaging over 20 points per game last season, his field percentage has dipped to under 40%, still good, however, for a 17.2 points per game average.

Evans is also a strong one on one defender and is furthermore, an impressive playmaker. His floor general instincts will be put to the test tonight as the Kings go up against the Knicks, who return home from an impressive 2-2 Western Conference road trip against major contenders.

The Knicks, playing amid loud Carmelo Anthony trade rumors, will have to sound it all out as they seek out the victory. Amar'e Stoudemire and Wilson Chandler (both playing well in the post for the guys in orange and blue), will have their hands full as they look to contain rookie DeMarcus Cousins, who has been on a hot streak of his own as of late.

Take a look at the late game heroics of Evans from earlier this season.

Would Carmelo Anthony Be An All-Star Starter in East?

via NBA.com

Antony's lead over third-place Pau Gasol (Lakers) is a healthy 94,000 votes, leaving 'Melo in good position to start for the West, but that's not the only race in play. There's also the East and Stoudemire to consider if/when the Nuggets' franchise player is dealt.

If 'Melo is indeed headed to New Jersey or New York or anywhere else in the East, his votes also make the trek across country. Anthony remains on the Western Conference ballot, but his votes would be counted in the East.

A similar situation took place with Allen Iverson the last two years. Traded from Denver to Detroit during the 2008-09 season, A.I. had enough support from NBA fans to start for the East after beginning the voting process on the West ballot. It happened again the following year after going from Memphis to Philadelphia. Iverson actually pulled the trick earlier in his career going from Philadelphia to Denver in 2006-07, except that time he was voted onto the All-Star team by West coaches.

'Melo currently has 945,720 votes. Stoudemire has nearly a 200,000-vote edge on Anthony if these two were in the running for an East spot. Garnett is also up more than 100,000 on 'Melo. Considering he's the league's ninth-leading scorer, Anthony would certainly be a shoo-in to be selected an All-Star reserve by the East coaches if he is indeed traded.

Although Anthony would obviously be celebrated as a true superstar in possible trade destinations New Jersey or New York, landing in one of those locations could land Anthony on the bench (as opposed to the starting lineup) of the Eastern Conference All-Star team.

With the Knicks heavily campaigning for Stoudemire to be named an all-star starter, it's likely he continues to receive more votes. At the same time, should Anthony be traded to the Knicks as well, he could also end up feeling the advantages of wearing orange and blue, potentially receiving a spurt of votes if and when he arrives in the big city.

Perhaps Stoudemire and Anthony will ultimately be starting next to each other in New York as Knicks teammates, as well as in Los Angeles...for NBA All-Star Weekend.

Amar'e Stoudemire Part of "New York's Finest"

via ESPN Magazine

Following his latest leap in All-Star voting, it's easy to see why Amar'e Stoudemire is becoming New York's true (basketball) superhero.

Take a look at this terrific, creative graphic from ESPN Magazine.

As the illustration displays, Stoudemire has quickly taken his place among "New York's Finest."

The original picture of Stoudemire donning orange and blue (before he was actually yet to put on a Knicks jersey) comes from Ryan Hurst, who can be found on Twitter @NBA_Photos.

To contact or view more of his fine work, visit Hurst's website.

Amar'e Stoudemire Pulls Ahead in All-Star Voting

via SI.com

Stoudemire passed perennial starter Kevin Garnett on Thursday for the second forward spot in the Eastern Conference, while Rose moved ahead of the Celtics' Rajon Rondo in a battle of guards hoping to make their first start.

Stoudemire, in his first season in New York, is nearly 94,000 votes ahead of Garnett as he bids to become the first Knicks player voted to start since Patrick Ewing in 1992. Rose is now 54,264 in front of Rondo.

The Knicks' heavy campaign to elevate Amar'e Stoudemire to all-star starter status is obviously proving to pay dividends. Although Stoudemire's MVP-like season and stardom status in New York City should prove to be easy propellers for him into the starting lineup, he has previously had trouble overtaking Garnett in the recent weeks.

Stoudemire has averaged 26.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks during the Knicks' resurgence, leading them to a 22-16 record thus far.

The obvious toast of the town, Stoudemire will be appearing on the Late Show with David Letterman tonight.

Fans can continue to throw their support towards Stoudemire and the Knicks for All-Star Weekend by clicking here.

Knicks Finish Road Trip With Loss to Utah Jazz

After pulling apart the Suns in Phoenix and playing competitively as any upcoming team could against the defending champion-Lakers in Los Angeles, the Knicks were definitely making strides during the team's most recent Western Conference road trip.

The 'Bockers bounced back from their loss in LA by pummeling Marcus Camby and the Blazers by a score of 100-86. It was the Knicks' defense, led by Ronny Turiaf, that obviously propelled the team to a victory. However, Turiaf didn't stop there, also having his best game as a Knickerbocker on the other end of the floor as well, finishing with 19 points and 10 rebounds.

Turiaf, along with Amar'e Stoudemire (23 points) and Wilson Chandler (17 points) continued to pace the Knicks all the way through the entire game, ceasing at nothing to put the Blazers away. Emphatic dunks by the latter two sealed the victory.

Raymond Felton continued his bid for an all-star selection, tying a Knicks' franchise record with 14 assists and 0 turnovers to go along with his 17 points. Bill Walker regained the stellar shooting stroke he displayed last season, adding a season high 10 points as well.

Walker and the Knicks set to take on the Utah Jazz during the second portion of their back-to-back set on Wednesday night. Though coming in on a high note with a 2-1 record so far on their road trip, the exhausted Knicks were already preparing to enter the match up short handed.

In addition to still missing Danilo Gallinari, the Knicks were expected to sit Toney Douglas, who is still nursing a nagging shoulder injury.

Unfortunately for the Knicks, their exhaustion showed and the Jazz set to take advantage of it from the very beginning. The game looked most similar to the team's prior contest vs. the Lakers, with the Knicks behind early and forced to play "catch-up" all the way through.

As much resilience as this season's Knicks continue to show on a daily basis, Deron Williams and the Jazz were just too much. Williams and his Jazz teammates were scoring at will, strongly taking the ball to the hoop and drawing numerous fouls from the Knicks. The Jazz seemed to take it to the Knicks all game long, and the team certainly felt it.

Coach Mike D'Antoni was forced to sit Stoudemire, Felton, and Turiaf for varied durations of the game, all due to foul trouble.

That being said, the men in orange and blue kept hope alive with 20 first half points from Walker, who continued his climb back into the rotation. Shawne Williams, the team's comeback player of the year, also continued to impress with a 16-point third quarter, finishing with a career high 25 points off the bench. He made 7 three-point field goals en route.

Besides those seemingly fresh legs, Stoudemire, Felton, Fields and company appeared run down (and furthermore, locked down, at times) by the Jazz defense.

With Felton wincing (likely due to an ankle injury that occurred vs. Portland), the Knicks' turned to seldomely-used veteran Roger Mason Jr. off the bench. Fearing the game was slipping out of reach, however, the team also ultimately turned to Douglas as well (though in limited minutes).

Finishing 2-2 on such a road trip is not a bad sign for the Knicks, who now stand at 12-9 on the road (one more road win than all of last season). The team looked dominant in two victories, yet still competitive in two losses.

They will look to build on the positives as the Knicks return home to host the Sacramento Kings on Friday night.

Why Blazers' Big Man Marcus Camby Could Make Return to New York Knicks

The New York Knicks are closely monitoring the Carmelo Anthony situation, waiting for the right time (if it ever comes) to pounce.

However, there’s also a chance that Anthony may elude them, should he be traded to a team like the Nets. Though the Knicks hold hope they can look into signing him outright this summer, Anthony is reportedly now open to signing an extension with the Nets for the long haul.

If Anthony does in fact end up with the Nets, the Knicks will be moving quickly, looking at other ways to use the cap room Eddy Curry’s expiring contract will grant them next season.

As the Knicks continue their quest to back to greatness, Donnie Walsh’s plan “B” to Anthony may very well be someone who was present during the team’s last heyday: Marcus Camby.

Camby helped lead the way as the Knicks propelled themselves to the NBA Finals as the 1999 Eastern Conference champs, only to lose to the Spurs. Then a much younger player, he has become one of the NBA’s best defensive big men over the last 10 plus years.

The Knicks will get an even closer look at the older, wiser, but almost just as effective Camby (as though they don’t know what he has to offer already) as they take on his current team, the Blazers, Tuesday night in Portland.

Although Camby, the one-time NBA “Defensive Player of the Year,” has seen a small decrease in minutes this season (he averages just under 29 minutes per game), that hasn’t stopped him from making his presence felt on the court. Still a just as intimidating force on defense, Camby is averaging 11.4 rebounds, 1.8 blocks, and one steal per game. Not bad for a 36-year-old big man.

As the Knicks visit Camby and the Blazers, they will be reminded of what the franchise once had, but yet now, again desperately needs. Besides his outstanding defense, Camby also brings a certain mental toughness and an obvious wealth of experience. While the Knicks’ defense may be improved this season, they are still lacking that same toughness down low as they are often forced to play “small ball,” filling up the post with quicker but smaller players.

Acquiring a player that boasts Camby’s credentials would take the pressure off star Amar’e Stoudemire to play a more physical game. Though Stoudemire blocks shots and plays effectively within the means of Coach Mike D’Antoni’s system, the Knicks are still sorely missing that bruiser at the center position.

While Camby is certainly not the superstar that his former Nuggets teammate Carmelo Anthony is, he would fit seamlessly into and suffice Walsh’s concept of surrounding the Knicks’ sole star with the perfect complementary players. Camby is still able to provide a team with everything the Knicks are still lacking, so it would be a smart move to acquire him at some point (given that acquiring Anthony becomes no longer an option).

Even so, for those concerned with how Anthony may alter this current Knicks squad, perhaps Camby may be the better option. He is the ultimate team player, and has already proven he can handle the pressures of playing in New York.

Though Camby is not particularly a fan of changing scenery, he has obviously the city his home before. In fact, although he hasn’t donned orange and blue since 2002, Camby only just recently sold his New York residence to Yankees great Bernie Williams this past fall.

If the Knicks are lucky, Camby may still have a soft spot for NYC. If a play is going to be made for him, however, it needs to be done by the February trading deadline, as he will not be a free agent this coming summer.

Having already signed a rich contract that runs through next season, Camby is a prime candidate to be swapped for Curry’s expiring deal if the Knicks and Blazers can agree upon a deal.

While teams like Heat, Lakers, and Celtics are proving that pairing up stars will work wonders for success, Donnie Walsh can also set out to prove (by going back to basics) that a well oiled machine can also run efficiently by building up a strong team with excellent role players.

If that is in fact, what Walsh and the Knicks believe, Marcus Camby may be their missing part.