New York Knicks: Iman Shumpert's Importance Clear After Deron Williams Dominance

If the New York Knicks could have ever used Iman Shumpert during the 2011-12 season, it was Monday night against Deron Williams and the New Jersey Nets. Without Shump's defensive presence, Williams lit up the Knicks for 38 in the Net's 100-92 win.

I can readily admit that Williams shot the ball so lights-out last night that not even Bruce Bowen could have stopped him, but Shumpert certainly would have been better than the defensive effort of Jeremy Lin.

Williams was even penetrating into the paint, tearing the Knicks up with the help of Kris Humphries, who was getting under New York's skin the entire night.

Shumpert has proven to be one of the best young defenders in the NBA and is among the league leaders in steals. His lockdown defense has been shown time and time again when the Knicks need a big stop—or several—on a hot offensive player.

The important thing for New York right now is getting Shumpert healthy and back on the floor. He has the ability to be the type of defender, like Bowen, who focuses on the best scorer on the court and shuts him down.

After what I've seen from Shump this season, I have to believe he could have helped the Knicks cut their eight-point deficit. Williams would have had a much tougher time scoring 38, and the stagnant Knicks' offense would have had even more chances than they already did to come back.