LeBron Who? The Knicks Keep On Rolling…

I have admitted more times than I care to remember that I wanted LeBron James on the Knicks. He’s not coming, and that’s that. I could go on and on about how he’s like a phone on vibrate, no rings. Or that he’s a coward, or that he took the easy way out, or that he’s Benedict Arnold, but I won’t do that. Instead I’m going to focus on the most important part of the NBA (to me), the New York Knickerbockers. Donnie Walsh is still manning the ship for the NYK, and as long that’s the case, this team looks to improve with every passing season.

“Diamond” David Lee traded to Golden State Warriors for Anthony Randolph, Ronny Turiaf, Kelenna Azubuike, and a 2nd Round Pick

David Lee was my favorite player on the Knicks from the moment he put on the Jersey. I was a fan of his work in Florida, and loved the fact that he was ambidextrous. He was basically the most consistent double-double in the league since his arrival (besides Dwight Howard), and is easily one of the best rebounders in the league. He’s a good ball handler, free throw shooter, passer, and overall great teammate. He flourished offensively under Mike D’Antoni, and will be a fan favorite in Golden State.

In return the Knicks pick up one of my favorite spark plugs in the league, and heart surgery survivor, Ronny Turiaf. This guy was great for the Lakers, and earned a solid contract from the Golden State Warriors. I cannot wait to see him in the Garden. The man is great for spelling anyone in the front court, and can even play heavy minutes in case of foul trouble. He cleans the glass with great tenacity and enjoyment, which is what you need down low to succeed in the NBA. Kelenna Azubuike is coming off an injury that kept him from playing all but 9 games last season. There was a time when Azubike was a great sixth man in Golden State, so hopefully he can replicate that for the Knicks.

The centerpiece of the trade for New York is said to be Anthony “NOT Zach” Randolph. A skinny 6-10 power forward who turns 21 on July 15th. He’s said to have not been a Don Nelson-type player, which probably means he doesn’t like being yelled at by an angry old (possibly drunk) man. He’s clearly an athletic freak, loves to swat people, and can run the floor with great fluidity. Randolph may get a chance to start for the Knicks, which he didn’t get to do a lot of for Golden State. With Amar’e Stoudemire to help teach Randolph D’Antoni’s system, I imagine he’ll be a much more confident player than he was with the Warriors. I can’t wait to see what Randolph is all about.

New York Knicks Sign Raymond Felton for 2 Years

For at least the last couple of seasons there have been rumors stating the Knicks wanted to trade for Felton. David Lee was usually thrown around during such conversations, and now Felton is a Knick, and David Lee isn’t. They weren’t exactly traded for one another, but nonetheless here we are. Felton is one player who doesn’t miss a lot of games, and his consistency alone is impressive. Hopefully Mike D’Antoni can make him into a more successful playmaker, as he’s never averaged more than 7 assists a game, but he’s also never really been on a good team. The Knicks look to be a fast break monster, and hopefully Felton can keep up, and direct traffic. This signing was a no-brainer, as Toney Douglas is not a starting point guard, and Amar’e and Gallo need someone to get them the ball. I imagine Felton will be the sleeper signing of the off-season.

Knicks Sign Timofey Mozgov

A man whose birthday is one day after fellow recent Knicks acquisition Anthony Randolph’s. Mozgov looks to be another giant who can run the fast break. He’s about 7’1, can handle the ball, jump out of the building, and board. He’s built like a hockey player, weighing in at 270 pounds. He’s been great in national play, and will be a New York Knicks for the next three years. He’s another player that looks to make a name for himself on a very offensive minded NYK team. I only know what I’ve seen on tape of Mozgov, but the dude looks like he’ll be perfectly fine on a fast break. I’m interested in seeing more of his defensive work.

2010 New York Knicks Roster

PG: Raymond Felton, Toney Douglas

SG: Wilson Chandler, Billy Walker, Andy Rautins

SF: Danillo Galinari, Kelenna Azubuike

PF: Amar’e Stoudemire, Ronny Turiaf

C: Anthony Randolph, Timofey Mozgov