Knicks Preview: Reeling or Dealing?

He also once again will probably get hurt and shoot for a very low percentage. 

If Richardson's back holds up, the SF position could be significantly improved

PF: Zach Randolph 

The newcomer is a "big man with a rare combination of power and agility," according to the Knicks' team page. 

A 6'9" power forward is hardly a big man. 

If by power they mean "ability to rebound the ball," the Knicks already have multiple "powerful players," including David Lee, who averaged a double-double in his second season, and Randolph Morris, who averaged a double-double in the Summer League.

The Knicks must hope that Randolph's defensive ineptitude stems from laziness rather than being too small or too slow.  But with a leader like Marbury, the younger Knicks have no positive example to learn from. 

Furthermore, if Randolph is such a stud, why did his old team finish with the first overall draft pick despite having the Rookie of the Year and a SF in Ime Udoka (released by Thomas last year) who has been compared to Bruce Bowen?

Fortunately, Randolph possesses an extraordinary offensive repetoire to go with his excessive usage rate, turnover rate, and miniscule assist rate.

C: Eddy Curry

Curry seemed to improve last year, but that was mostly an illusion. 

His rebounding and scoring numbers rose because he played more minutes—despite his lack of conditioning, defense, or passing ability.  His rebounding rate actually declined.

The offense revolved around him, so naturally he got more shots. 

Even with the experience of being the primary scorer, though, Curry didn't learn how to pass out of double- or triple-teams.  It's a mystery what training camp and practice are for.  His turnover rate was a career high, and he possesses a legendary ratio of turnovers to assists, blocks, and steals combined.

Curry's defensive style closely resembles that of any of the chairs that Yi Jianlian dominated before the NBA Draft.  If he works on awareness and conditioning this year, maybe Isiah's plan to make him the focus of the offense will work.

The Bench

Jared Jeffries' only skill is "long arms."  He has not and will not improve.  Look for him to get hurt or play poorly. 

David Lee, meanwhile, should return from injury to resume his role as a fan favorite. Last season, Lee averaged 10.7 points and 10.4 rebounds on 60 percent field goal shooting.  His performance at the free throw line improved dramatically in '06-'07, and he's been working on his midrange shot this summer. 

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