Is A'mare Stoudemire's Return Good or Bad?

By Thomas Duffy
Steve Mitchell-US PRESSWIRE

A’mare Stoudemire is aiming for a return to the court on Christmas day, and that makes me, and many other New York Knicks fans, wonder: is this good or bad for the Knicks?

New York is currently at 11-4 and, with wins over the Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs, are proving to be a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference. But with Stoudemire returning, will the chemistry and ball movement that has been developed over the first 15 games be hurt?

I tend to think so. Stoudemire has always been a bit of a diva, and needs to ball in order to put in effective minutes on the court. With Carmelo Anthony dominating the ball for a good amount of possessions, and Raymond Felton and J.R. Smith scoring mainly off of jump-shots, someone’s touches will have to be reduced, and that will not go over well in the locker room.

But why should it go over well? This team has worked hard to get to the spot where it is, and each player has found his niche in the offense. One player’s return shouldn’t change that.

If Stoudemire wants to remain in New York, he will have to come off the bench. If he is unwilling to do so, then the Knicks will have to look into trading him, perhaps for Pau Gasol.

I like Stoudmire’s game, but just not for this team in this offense. But, who knows? Maybe Coach Mike Woodson can transform him into an All-Star who defends and rebounds.

Hey, a fan can dream.

Follow Thomas Duffy on Twitter @TD_Knicks for articles, news, and all things NBA.

Share On FacebookShare StumbleUpon

You May Also Like