New Yorks Knicks Preview
With preseason upon us I feel it’s time to talk some basketball once again. The New York Knicks this year are poised for a bounce back season after the acquisitions of Amar’e Stoudemire, and Raymond Felton through free agency and Anthony Randolph, Ronny Turiaf and Kelenna Azubuike through trade with the Golden State Warriors.
These weapons, paired with the impeccable outside shooting of Danilo Gallinari as well as secondary players such as newly acquired big man Timofey Mozgov from Russia, Wilson Chandler, and rookies Landry Fields, and Andy Rautins have the Knicks set for a playoff push.
Still stewing in the minds of a lot of Knicks fans is the whole ‘The Decision’ fiasco with LeBron James choosing to “take his talents to South Beach.” After the end of the 2009-2010 season, Knicks management as well every Knick fan believed that arguably the best basketball player in the league at the moment was going to be seen in the orange and blue.
But that all came to a screeching halt on July 8, 2010 when he decided to play for the conference rival and sometimes hated Miami Heat. Though many fans saw this as a loss of an off season, this gave GM and President of the Knicks Donnie Walsh new energy to shake things up on the Knicks as a team. The signing of Amar’e Stoudemire and the blockbuster trade that sent fan favorite and beloved Knicks forward David Lee to the Golden State Warriors for Randolph, Turiaf, and Azubuike. Add in the international signing of Timofey Mozgov, 24, 7’1 center out of Russia whose raw talent, defensive prowess, and nose for the ball could lead to a solid front court for the Knicks this year and in the future as well.
I’d like to take a second and break down the Knicks overall.
Raymond Felton who came out of the University of North Carolina is a ball hawk who is in on just about every play and has the ability to carry out Coach D’Antoni’s offense very well. Wilson Chandler is just 23 years old and is versatile in that he is 6’8 and can dribble, shoot and even guard bigger players, and he stands to see some time when Azubuike comes back who is as flexible as Chandler.
Danilo Gallinari averaged over 15 points per game last year and this year being fully healthy he is headed towards an important year for his career and the Knicks organization. He was taken in the top 10 a few years ago and people questioned whether the Italian player could play NBA ball. I think after last year’s performance, this year this kid is bound for glory.
The forward position is an interesting one because the Knicks haven’t yet found their true center. Who knows if Mozgov, who is young in both experience and age, can pull it together? I think that all signs point to Mozgov being able to adjust. Obviously Amar’e Stoudemire or STAT as he goes by, is ready to prove he is worth the hype and the money he got paid. And boy do I think he is. He can shoot, rebound, block shots, and find his teammates like not many other players in the league. Couple that point with Anthony Randolph, who was taken by the Warriors after one year of college and with a lot of projected potential, he is figured to bring much length to the defense at a stellar 6’10, and blessed with lights out shooting ability the sky is the limit.
As Mozgov grows into his position, the acquisition of Ronny Turiaf is important I think. After overcoming heart issues, he has grown into a scrappy player who is always willing to go the extra mile for the team. I like to compare him to Jerome Williams who was a fan favorite and always was willing to sacrifice his body for the team.
As most Knick fans know, this is a pivotal year for not only the team but management and coach D’Antoni. I feel as if the Knicks have a legitimate shot at the Playoffs this year. Though they have gotten better, so too have the Miami as they are now the ‘Dark Side’ of the NBA, with their big three of Bosh, James, and Wade. Only time will tell what will happen with the Knicks this season but in my eyes, I feel as if fans should have faith because this may be the turning point.
For information on New York Knicks tickets, NBA games, or any other events please visit Premier Global Sports.
