NBA New York Knicks

Constructing the New York Knicks’ Ideal Starting Lineup

Constructing the New York Knicks’ Ideal Starting Lineup

New York Knicks
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President Phil Jackson knew when he hired Derek Fisher as the head coach of the New York Knicks that he would struggle in the beginning to figure out a viable starting lineup. New York has played well in stretches, but the starting lineup continues to change on a night-to-night basis. The stellar play of these standout players should warrant a start sooner rather than later.

PG - Jose Calderon

Jose Calderon
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PG - Jose Calderon

Jose Calderon
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The Knicks were ecstatic to acquire a competent point guard last summer, sending Raymond Felton to the Dallas Mavericks for Jose Calderon in return. Calderon has yet to play a game, though, as he suffered a strained calf a few weeks ago, but expect him to to receive the starting nod immediately upon his return. A deadly shooter, Calderon has put up efficient scoring numbers since entering the league in 2005.

SG - Tim Hardaway Jr.

Tim Hardaway Jr.
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SG - Tim Hardaway Jr.

Tim Hardaway Jr.
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Perhaps New York's most intriguing young talent, Tim Hardaway Jr. has seldom seen the court thus far, but is likely to receive more playing time as the season progresses. Hardaway Jr.'s incredible three-point shooting meshes perfectly in the triangle offense and further developing other facets of his game can only benefit the Knicks down the line.

SF - Quincy Acy

Quincy Acy
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SF - Quincy Acy

Quincy Acy
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One of the more underrated acquisitions of the offseason, Quincy Acy has proved himself as a very talented defensive player, while dominating the boards as well. Not known for his scoring, Acy has also developed a semi-consistent mid-range jump shot that should eventually force Fisher's hand to insert him in to the starting lineup. As another young talent, the Knicks should be looking to develop Acy for the future.

PF - Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony
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PF - Carmelo Anthony

Carmelo Anthony
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Clearly, Carmelo Anthony will be the starter all season, however, the question is whether he is better suited playing at the small forward or power forward. A bit underrated defensively, Anthony possesses the size to defend opposing power forwards while also having the speed to keep up with other wings. Personally, I would like to see him start at the power forward simply because he is a capable rebounder.

C - Amar'e Stoudemire

Amar'e Stoudemire
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C - Amar'e Stoudemire

Amar'e Stoudemire
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Amar'e Stoudemire's defense is still atrocious, but the offseason has done well for him, reviving the player we came to love years ago. Scoring will be a necessity, especially with Acy on the floor, so having Stoudemire on the floor will somewhat make up for his deficiencies. As long as he remains an average defender, the Knicks have a serious opportunity to contend amongst fellow Eastern Conference foes.

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