Carmelo Anthony Is Chilling With Pandas and Showing Off Dance Moves In China

It was just over a year ago that Hornets' guard Chris Paul toasted Carmelo Anthony at his wedding and suggested he and his good friend join Amar'e Stoudemire in New York to form a strong enough tandem to take down the "Big Three" in Miami.

With STAT and Melo now both donning orange and blue, it two down, one to go for the Knicks.

These days, Anthony is spending some quality time with buddy Paul as the two venture together in China as part of the "Jordan Flight Tour" for Nike's Jordan sneakers.

Anthony and Paul both asserted during a Q&A with fans that they would both in fact play in China, should either decide to play overseas during the lockout, with the Knicks star noting, "it's a lot of history here, the fans are great; why not, why not try it out?"

Aside from promoting the sneakers and pondering their lockout fates, the two have spent their time touring China while chilling with pandas and performing a Chinese opera mask dance together.

Take a look below for a peak inside exactly what Anthony and Paul have been up to.

Knicks Star Amar'e Stoudemire: The Next Big NBA Blogger?

"I'm not a businessman, I'm a Business, man."

You may remember that great one-liner as recited by Nets part-owner Jay-Z in a Kanye West rap song, but the assertion certainly holds true for Amar'e Stoudemire these days, considering all of the off the court ventures the Knicks captain seems to have up his sleeve.

Just days after unveiling a new women's fashion line, Stoudemire and Big Lead Sports announced they have entered into what they call a "strategic relationship." BLS, a successful online sports property and leader in the world of fantasy sports, will collaborate with Stoudemire on an online fantasy sports platform, as well as an educational curriculum for kids featuring fantasy related math.

In addition, STAT will seemingly also add "blogger" to his growing list of various titles, as he will develop content and become a "regular contributor" to the likes of BigLeadSports.com, HoopsHype, and HOOPSWORLD. The Knicks star will contribute basketball and lifestyle pieces.

Stoudemire, who will become a stockholder in BLS and an advisor to the company, had this to say about his latest venture:

“I’m very pleased to be working with Big Lead Sports on this unique partnership. I see a lot of opportunity in fantasy sports and the digital media services Fantasy Sports Ventures provides. I am looking forward to adding value to all of the platforms especially the free educational initiatives that are being developed for kids. Although I am a novice in fantasy sports and I may not be named Commissioner of my fantasy league this season, I do see the huge growth potential of fantasy basketball.”

ESPN New York: Amar'e Stoudemire May Play Overseas After All

Knicks star Amar'e Stoudemire is clearly a man who loves to build his own individual brand as an athlete, celebrity, and entrepreneur.

The offseason certainly provides STAT ample time to concentrate on such things, as he joined fashion designer Rachel Roy in his rented home in Hollywood Hills, California to unveil their new women's clothing line to the fashion media.

Also on hand Monday for the unveiling was Knicks Journal's pal, ESPN New York's Jared Zwerling.

Of course, STAT couldn't escape talk of the NBA Lockout and admitted that if the lockout were to continue, Knicks fans could ultimately see him overseas.

From ESPN New York: "The chances would be high" of playing elsewhere in a lockout, Stoudemire said. "They'd definitely be high. I just want to make sure I'm healthy and totally 100 percent before I make that type of commitment. As of right now, we're not entertaining offers. I'm still trying to get (my back) right."

Though he continues to maintain that his ultimate loyalty is to getting healthy for the New York Knicks, Stoudemire noted that he has received overseas offers from the likes of Israel, China, Turkey, and Spain.

Right now, his goal is getting healthy and returning from a back injury that has plagued him since the NBA Playoffs. As previously reported, STAT will also organize team workouts in Los Angeles next month.

That being said, it's clear that a big reason why he came to New York is because he is a player who craves and thrives in the spotlight, both as an athlete and a businessman. When considering all of his off the court endeavors (especially his new fashion line), there's no doubt that a focus overseas would help the Knicks' captain's individual brand immensely. Should the lockout continue, no one could blame Stoudemire (nor should they be surprised) for going overseas, not only to simply receive a paycheck NBA players cannot obtain in the United States, but also to continue to extend his brand's reach internationally. The opportunities are endless for such a star.

E! News' Resident Knicks Fan Ben Lyons Interviews Baron Davis

Baron Davis broke the hearts of many Knicks fans this past season, scoring 18 points in his Cavaliers debut in March, leading his new team to one of their three victories against New York.

Nevertheless, E! News' Ben Lyons, a diehard Knicks fans, wasn't left bitter and interviewed Davis. They two talked about basketball, Davis' entertainment career, and his charity (Rising Stars of America).

The charity is a fantastic one that everyone should check out. The charity also just hosted a huge kickball tournament in Davis' hometown of Los Angeles, which was attended by many athletes and celebrities, including the Knicks' own Shelden Williams.

Definitely check out the video as Lyons asks BDiddy about a bevy of topics, including how he feels about potentially playing overseas. Be sure to watch the entire video, as Lyons can be seen doing some recruiting work for his favorite basketball team towards the end!

Knicks Rookie Iman Shumpert Working Out With Jarrett Jack

Knicks Journal reported earlier last week via Alan Hahn that Knicks captain Amar'e Stoudemire was already reaching out to many of his teammates in regard to organizing team workouts next month Los Angeles.

Of course, that still growing list of teammates STAT reached out to included Knicks rookie Iman Shumpert. That said, Shumpert has been getting a head start.

Shumpert has far from been properly welcomed into the NBA with the lockout going on. He is obviously not allowed to interact with the coaching staff nor use team facilities to work on his game. Furthermore, the NBA Summer League (where many of the Knicks' younger talents were to participate). was cancelled, leaving Shumpert to fend for himself prior to his new captain's organized workouts.

With the NBA lockout in full swing, however, college campuses have welcomed back their former players/students back to its own facilities with open arms. Shumpert has been working out at Georgia Tech, taking tips from fellow former Yellow Jacket and current NBA veteran point guard Jarret Jack.

According to Marc Berman, Jack has been in Shumpert's ear and the two have been practicing together, doing a ton of shooting drills. The Knicks drafted Shumpert because of his versatile defensive ability, with the consistency of his offense being a question mark.

All that considered, Shumpert is now learning from Jack, a 45% shooter from the field in his career, so he is sure to benefit from the workouts. Jack played in a league-high 83 games this past season (he was traded mid-season) and finished up the season backing up All-Star guard (and rumored Knick to be in 2012) Chris Paul, averaging 8.9 points in just over 20 minutes per game.

Shumpert also took time during his summer to play in Dwight Howard's charity basketball game last week in Atlanta.

New York Knicks Legend John Starks High on Team's Resurgence

Despite the deafening silence of the NBA lockout, it's hard to contain the excitement surrounding the New York Knicks. The team showed strides last season, making progress with a playoff appearance, their resurgence led by new resident star Amar'e Stoudemire.

There's no doubt that New York is a passionate city that will welcome any type of Knicks success with high praise and even bigger celebrations. As STAT and company continue to strive for their time to shine, there's perhaps no one better than Knicks legend John Starks that knows the very type of thrill the current Knicks squad craves.

Starks recently appeared at the Steiner Sports store in Long Island, New York to meet and greet the fans that have supported him for many years. Starks himself was greeted by a tremendous turnout, the type that is surely reserved for New York's most celebrated athletes.

Starks took time out not only to reflect upon and gush about his own experiences in orange and blue, but to share his thoughts and hopes for the Knicks today. Read on to see what Starks thinks about Knicks rookie Iman Shumpert, his summer plans, and the electricity that now fills up the Garden again.

Q: As a player, you experienced some great times with the Knicks, who ended their season by losing to the Celtics in the first round of the playoffs. How did you feel about the team's progress?

A: This season was obviously a big stepping stone in the right direction for the Knicks. We were able to get two very solid players in Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony. Throwing Chauncey Billups into the mix, we really stabilized the lead guard position too. Considering where the team was the last six or seven years, it was great to make the playoffs and I think there's a great foundation to build upon now.

Q: Talking about adding pieces to that foundation, what are your thoughts on the team's two draft picks last month, Iman Shumpert and Josh Harrellson?

A: Well we made two really solid draft picks. I think both Josh and Iman can both step in and play pivotal roles in what the New York Knicks are trying to do this year. Hopefully once the season starts, whenever it starts, the two guys that we've got can come in and be the surprises of the draft just like Landry Fields was this past season.

Q: Not only was Landry Fields' production and progress a surprise, but so was his starting role with the team. There's been talk that Iman was drafted higher by the Knicks than originally projected, so where do you see him fitting in? Will he be able to play a big role for the team, even as a rookie?

A: I think so. Iman's a versatile guard that can defend multiple positions. He's definitely a big guard who can obviously play in different spots himself too. You're always looking for a guy who can defend and put the ball in the basket. He's proved he can do that. As a young player, he's obviously got a lot to learn, but it's clear he has some great veterans on this team to take things from going forward.

Q: Let's talk about your own summer plans for a minute. You've got a big event coming up for the John Starks Foundation, don't you?

A: That's right. We have our big golf tournament that will take place on September 13. That's one of our biggest fundraising events. I always get excited when I think about where the foundation started and where it is today. I like to take time out to thank all of the foundation's supporters that continue to help teens realize their dreams by being able to go to college. It's all about continuing to grow and get money out there for these kids to go to school.

Q: I heard you'll be participating in "Basketball without Borders" in China later this summer as well. Tell me a bit about your involvement.

A: Well normally, I serve as an ambassador for the NBA during the clinics and events they do, and I don't expect my role to change. China is just an incredible place to go visit and it'll be great to grow the presence of the game of basketball. It's something that the league does every year—going beyond the United States to grow the game. In China, the NBA has become the No. 1 sport, surpassing soccer, which is huge. It's a big market for the NBA and they just want to do everything they can to continue to grow.

Q: New York has always been a big local market as well. During your time as a Knick, you and your teammates obviously ignited the crowds with many successes, including an NBA Finals appearance in 1994. How do you feel the level of excitement back then compares to where it was during the playoffs this season?

A: The excitement is definitely back. It's always nice to see the Garden lit up like it was last season. The enthusiasm is back, and so is the electricity. The team is something that the fans can certainly be proud of again. As a former player, it's nice to see the energy back inside that building. I'll say that I'm definitely very excited about the upcoming season, whenever it does get underway.

Q: Before I let you go, I have to mention that as I look around here today, it's clear that the fans' loyalty, support and excitement around a celebrated Knick like yourself has never once wavered.

A: No question! I've been very blessed to play for one of the greatest franchises ever in existence in the New York Knicks. So many fans are passionate about the Knicks. They are very knowledgeable. In fact, the entire tri-state area has some great sports fans in general.

For me personally, I've been able to come in here, be successful, and have the fans really support me. Even through my ups and downs, the fans have been behind me. It's been a great journey for me to experience that same support as a player, and then now, to still see so much appreciation for the way I played the game of basketball.

Amar'e Stoudemire Organizing Knicks Workouts in LA

Last month, Knicks captain Amar'e Stoudemire told Knicks Journal that he was keeping in touch with teammates like Carmelo Anthony and Landry Fields and planned to organize team workouts in Los Angeles within the coming weeks.

While during the NBA lockout, team officials cannot contact players in regard to different training regimes during the offseason, team captains are most definitely fair game.

According to Alan Hahn, STAT has demonstrated leadership by reaching out to teammates, including Anthony, Fields, Chauncey Billups, Andy Rautins, Roger Mason Jr., Jared Jeffries, Jerome Jordan, and rookies Iman Shumpert and Josh Harrellson.

All of the noted players are under contract with the Knicks for whenever the next NBA season will begin, except for Mason Jr. and Jeffries. That being said, Mason Jr. is a good friend of Stoudemire's and just so happens to be the Vice President of the Players Union, so he's certainly a valuable man to keep in the fold. Mason Jr. has also expressed interest in returning to New York next season after seeing a bigger role off the bench following the trade for Melo and company.

While the return of Jeffries will depend on the Knicks' cap situation following the end of the lockout, he's clearly found a niche as a defensive specialist in Mike D'Antoni's system (ironically) following two stints in orange and blue.

Hahn notes that any exclusions from his list should not necessarily be emphasized, as players like Ronny Turiaf, who will be absent from the workouts, is only so because of obligation to the French National Team.

Shawne Williams, a free agent who upped his stock with a comeback season with the Knicks, has also made it clearly that he is willing to do what it takes to return to the team next season as well, so it wouldn't be surprising to see him there as well. Derrick Brown, who prior to the lockout had a qualifying offer extended to him by the Knicks, is currently interning at Warner Bros. Records. No word on the likes of Toney Douglas, Renaldo Balkman, Bill Walker, and free agents Shelden Williams and Anthony Carter.

These workouts will reportedly begin sometime in August.

You Have a Chance to Win Signed "A Tribe Called Quest" Movie Poster!

Did you listen to Knicks Journal's own, Keith Schlosser, and Beats, Rhymes, and Life: The Travels of A Tribe Called Quest director Michael Rapaport on the "Fanalysts Sportsrap," featuring The Gambler and Phife Dawg tonight?

If so, thanks for tuning in! If not, you definitely missed out on some greats sports, NBA, and Knicks related talk and debate.

Either way, Knicks Journal is still happy to show appreciation for its readers, Knicks and "A Tribe Called Quest" fans alike! You still a chance to win the "A Tribe Called Quest" documentary poster signed by Rapaport and Phife Dawg themselves!

All it takes to win is being able to answer the following trivia question relating to tonight's show: Which NBA player (a free agent) did Gambler and I disagree would be a solid addition to the New York Knicks roster next season?

If you already listened in tonight, then great! You've already done your part and are primed to win. Just be sure to tweet or DM me on Twitter @KnicksJournal or e-mail me at kschlosser89@yahoo.com with your answer!

If you didn't get a chance to tune in live, don't fret! You can still click here to get in on the action for your chance to win! Listen as myself and The Gambler talk about Amar'e Stoudemire, the future of the Knicks and NBA lockout.

Keep those answers coming. If a winner does not come out victorious by midday Friday, I'll consider changing up the question!

In order to be qualified to win, make sure you follow myself, Michael Rapaport, Phife Dawg, and of course, my man, The Gambler on Twitter.

Listen to Keith Schlosser on "Fanalysts SportsRap" Tonight and Win Prize!

Will Amar'e Stoudemire go overseas to play during the lockout? Was drafting Iman Shumpert over Chris Singleton the right move for the Knicks? Is Kurt Thomas going to return to New York to play center next season? Who will replace Donnie Walsh as Knicks President?

All these have been burning questions as of late. Despite the NBA lockout, there's always plenty to talk about when it comes to the Knicks and basketball.

With that said, make sure you listen to me tonight as I appear on Knicks Journal-pal Phife Dawg's radio show, "Fanalysts Sportsrap," featuring Phife and The Gambler. I'll be coming on around 10:20 pm EST, but make sure you listen in from 10p-12a EST, as Michael Rapaport, another Knicks Journal friend, and of course the director of Beats, Rhymes, and Life: The Travels of A Tribe Called Quest, will be appearing on the show tonight as well.

As evidenced in their past interviews with Knicks Journal, both Phife and Mike are passion Knicks fans. Phife's genuine love for sports is displayed on the show with The Gambler each and every week. You can listen in to all four of us tonight by clicking here or by going to http://damatrixstudios.com/.

Need more motivation than great sports debate to listen in? Well, tonight you'll have it. Hip-hop and A Tribe Called Quest fans have a chance to win a movie poster from the group's documentary signed by Phife Dawg and Michael Rapaport themselves.

Being able to win is simple: just tune in and listen to my appearance (as well as the rest of the show) tonight, pay close attention, and be ready to answer a trivia question that will follow sometime tomorrow right here on KnicksJournal.com and the Twitter account @KnicksJournal. Only those who tune in to listen will a chance at winning the signed poster, so don't miss out!

In the meantime, make sure you also follow Rapaport, Phife Dawg, and The Gambler on Twitter.

In any event, stay engaged, and hope to have you all listening in tonight!

Ronny Turiaf Attending Training Camp with French National Team

Knicks center Ronny Turiaf is gearing up to represent France in Eurobasket this summer. He, along NBA players Tony Parker, Joakim Noah, Nicholas Batum, and many others, are on hand as the French National Team opens training camp this week.

Turiaf, who has always taken pride in his background, was unable to participate last summer due to injuries but is finally healthy enough to play again. Furthermore, again noting the NBA lockout, there is nothing (like a mere suggestion from the Knicks that he not play) that can be communicated to him that would keep him from participating.

Nevertheless, Turiaf confirmed his passion and commitment to the French National Team, whom he has represented dating back to 2006, in April, prior to the Knicks' playoff series vs. the Celtics.

Turiaf, along with incoming rookie Josh Harrellson, are the only two true centers signed on the Knicks for next season. Prevented communication between the Knicks and their players presents tricky situations at times like these where players risk injuries, but in an interview linked above, Parker notes that he (and perhaps his French squad teammates) are not as worried despite the lockout.

Also joining Turiaf on the squad is his best friend, Boris Diaw. Last summer, the two traveled Africa, doing some great community work in the process.

Nate Robinson to Play in NFL During NBA Lockout?

During the NBA lockout, players are figuring out ways to stay busy. Some players are mulling offers from overseas, while others are finding things to do off the court.

There are many things players can find to occupy their time away from the game, but will one NBA player's competitive edge be enough for him to go from the hardwood to the gridiron?

Former Knick Nate Robinson, a man always known for his flair, is seeking a tryout with the NFL, should the NBA lockout continue.

Though the NFL is in a lockout of its own, Robinson is confident that when and if that subsides, he would have no problem getting a training camp invite. A three-time Slam Dunk Contest champion, Nate the Great has defied the odds and thrilled crowds throughout his entire career. Furthermore, the 5'9" guard did play football during his freshman year of college at the University of Washington. He actually attended the school while on a football scholarship.





He pleaded his case to SLAM Online, saying, "Why wouldn’t you want to have an NBA player that can play football try out? That’s a lot of publicity for your organization.”

That being said, this wouldn't be merely a publicity stunt for the Robinson, as he went on to say he's taking it seriously by doing some training.

Besides his thunderous dunks, Robinson's other claim to fame is a monstrous block on the now retired 7'6" Yao Ming, so there's no doubt this former NCAA safety would have a problem taking on large opponents in the NFL.

On a somewhat-related note, if you're interested in checking out what some current Knicks are up to during the off-season/lockout, definitely take a look at Seth's "Knicks Lockout Diary" over at "Posting & Toasting."

Deron Williams Signing in Turkey Not Likely to Affect Knicks

Deron Willians of the Nets made headlines yesterday with the report that he would be playing for Besiktas in Turkey should the NBA lockout spill over into the scheduled regular season. Hawks center Zaza Pachulia will also be joining him, and Besiktas (who had Allen Iverson play for them briefly last season) is not yet done scouting NBA players looking for jobs during the lockout.

That being said, the splash made by Williams isn't likely to influence Knicks stars Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony, who are both currently rehabbing from injuries that plagued them towards the end of last season.

Stoudemire, who has reportedly already gotten offers from teams in China, Europe, and Israel, will not risk the $80 million remaining on his contract with the Knicks, according to his agent Happy Walters. STAT would need to find an outside party to insure any international contract he would sign, in the event he gets injured while playing.

The Knicks had flirted with the idea of trading for Williams prior to last season's trading deadline, but instead plugged the trigger on a deal for Anthony. Anthony, who is spending his time this offseason with with family and working on his rap label, is also unlikely to play overseas.

While it appears as though the Knicks can let out a sigh of relief for now, Knicks guard Roger Mason Jr., who serves as Vice President of the players union, told Newsday that he has spoken to many stars players, including STAT and Melo, and that anything is a possibility.

As proof, Kobe Bryant (who spent time growing up in Italy while his father played professionally), is said to be targeted by Besiktas as well to pair up with Williams in its backcourt.

The issue with multiple star players signing overseas is that most international teams, outside of those in China, likely do not have the resources to acquire more than one player of such a caliber. All the same, the prospect of Williams playing in Turkey may certainly be getting owners around the league a bit worried (should other players follow in his footsteps) as his debut draws closer.

A Tribe Called Quest Documentary To Hit Theaters

Actor Michael Rapaport's directorial debut, "Beats, Rhymes, and Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest," is set to be released in theaters starting Friday, July 8th, in New York and Los Angeles.

The movie documents the rap group's ups and downs, successes and struggles--from their rise to the top of hip hop music to their breakup in 1998. Fans also get an inside look as to why the group eventually reunited in 2006 and headlined the 2008 "Rock the Bells" tour.

While Rapaport does dissect the controversies surrounding the group over the years, the film also clearly serves as a love letter to his favorite rappers of all-time.

Rapaport travels across the globe to talk with all four members--Q-Tip, Phife Dawg, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, and Jarobi White--about of course, the good and the bad times, but also to ask the question, "Will Tribe make more music?"

There's no doubt that the fans would embrace such a new release, having craved new Tribe music (and celebrated the classics of the past) for years now. That being said, through various conversations Rapaport has with the likes of old school influences like Pete Rock and De La Soul, to the more recent hit makers like Pharrell and Common, also proves that the entire hip hop nation as a whole would love to hear new music from the group that influenced so many artists today.

Rapaport and Phife Dawg, his ATCQ right-hand man throughout the entire process, are both proud New Yorkers and diehard New York Knicks fans. The two sat down with Knicks Journal for interviews regarding the film and their favorite basketball team back in April, expressing concerns that the whole group would be behind the film. Nevertheless, after a few turns and twists, the entire group has now shown support of it one way or another, with the public ready to finally celebrate the film in the coming days.

While the documentary itself is supported by the group-mates and Rapaport does do a phenomenal job of celebrating them, viewers and fans will have to watch to see if Rapaport gets an answer to his ultimate question.

Phife Dawg's love for sports is especially noted throughout the film, as he is hardly ever seen filmed without some sort of sports gear, ranging from Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant jerseys to Golden State Warriors and Oakland Raiders hats. During the film, he even talks about his love for the Knicks and Lakers and shares his thoughts about Knicks star Amar'e Stoudemire.

While on the road, Phife loves to attend sporting events with bandmate and good friend Jarobi White. He now also spends his time away from the rap game as a basketball scout.

For a complete list of the film's release dates, click here.

Berman: Knicks Extend Assistant Coaches

The New York Post's Marc Berman is reporting that despite no formal announcement, all four Knicks assistant coaches will return to the team next season, whenever that shall begin.

Phil Weber, Dan D'Antoni, Kenny Atkinson, and senior member Herb Williams (all of whom had expiring contracts) have had their contracts extended through next season. The extensions also likely signal that head coach Mike D'Antoni, who already is signed through next season, will also definitely be back.

The faith in D'Antoni and his group of most trusted men makes sense, especially with the lockout in full swing. Furthermore, the coaches deserve another season with the post-Carmelo Anthony trade assembled Knicks to see if they can really get things rolling with a training camp and such under their belts.

There was brief speculation that Williams would not be retained, especially with a defensive specialist/lead assistant, like Boston's Lawrence Frank, expected to be added to the staff in time for next season. That being said, Williams has been a staple on the Knicks bench since 2003 (and obviously as a player long before that as well).

Serving as an interim head coach at times for the Knicks over the years, some may wonder why Williams has not secured a head coaching position with so much experience. His former Knicks teammate, Patrick Ewing, has had similar troubles.

In the past, Williams has interviewed for head coaching posts with the Knicks as well as the Pacers. In addition to his longevity, he also shares an agent with Mike D'Antoni, which may play into his return as well.

A Sigh of Relief For Knicks Fans?

via Zags Blog

“I doubt it happens,” the source said. “Much too complicated. We will see if it’s real and make sense. Hopefully, the owners and players’ association will come to an agreement sooner than later.”

An insider from Amar'e Stoudemire's team recently downplayed the possibility of him playing in Kobe Bryant's China exhibition to SNY.

The insider seems to have a very honest and open view about the issue, though. It's clear that Stoudemire understands the risk(s) of playing in such a tournament, but at the same time, if the lockout continues to the point where the players cannot resume their livelihoods, STAT (and everyone else for that matter) has to play somewhere eventually.

For now though, it appears as though Knicks fans can rest easy, as Stoudemire is not jumping at the chance and will apparently not jeopardize the Knicks' chance of contention (whenever the NBA season does begin) just yet.

Amar'e Stoudemire To Play in China With Kobe Bryant?

The NBA lockout has officially hit, but the league's players are wasting no time figuring out how they will keep busy in the meantime.

That of course includes the Knicks' Amar'e Stoudemire, who is reportedly considering joining Kobe Bryant and a bevy of other NBA stars to play in China, according to the New York Daily News' Frank Isola.

STAT's participation in Bryant's proposed exhibition tour in China depends only on if he can find a company to insure the $100 million, five year contract he signed with the Knicks last summer, in the event he gets injured during the exhibition.

Furthermore, the Knicks' superstar is only interested in signing on should the lockout spill into the NBA's regular season's schedule, reports Isola.

Though Stoudemire honored the Knicks' request not to play with Team USA last summer, the team will have a more difficult time conveying a similar message with the lockout in full swing. That being said, Amar'e's agent, Happy Walters, may somehow be able to make his client aware of the team's wishes.

Bryant is trying to assemble a few teams full of NBA players to play and entertain through a paid tour in China in interest of the lockout.

Previously, the Wasserman Media Group, who represents Ben Wallace, league MVP Derrick Rose, and international superstar Tracy McGrady, has already hinted on taking its players over to China for some sort of playing festivity during the lockout.

It's not clear if the suggested tours of Bryant and the WMG are or will be connected, but Stoudemire is the first rumored player to be interested in Bryant's. The WMG also represents Knicks free agent big man Shelden Williams, who is among the agency's 45 NBA player clients.

In other NBA lockout news, the league is allowing the Miami Heat and its staff attend the wedding of Chris Bosh, despite the work stoppage and no contact-rules between players and team officials.