New York Knicks: Why Nate Robinson Would Shine in Return to New York

The New York Knicks are not in a position to be picky at point guard. Evidently, they're doing just that.

Mitch Lawrence of New York Daily News is reporting that the Knicks are not going to strongly consider bringing in Nate Robinson. Even with Jeremy Lin, that's a mistake. 

Until Baron Davis returns, this team has next to nothing at point guard. Even when Davis gets back, he's a 32-year-old point guard, coming off of an injury, that will be manning the ship for a team that likes to run.

A little depth isn't going to hurt at that position. Remember that while the Knicks are good, they aren't as strong at the top as the Miami Heat, and aren't anywhere as deep as the Chicago Bulls. 

No, the Knicks are at best the third-best team in the Eastern Conference. If they are going to improve on that, they'll need to bring in some players to add depth, particularly in the backcourt.

Lawrence labeled Robinson as "high-maintenance" and said that "just about everyone in the organization is opposed to bringing back Robinson."

Robinson is only 27. Despite averaging only 23 minutes a game, he's averaged 11 points throughout his career. Athleticism is not a problem for the 5'9" Robinson. 

He can clearly run the floor with any of his potential Knicks teammates. 

He's perfect for Mike D'Antoni's running system. That's why this is such a baffling stance that the Knicks are taking. Especially with the injury to Iman Shumpert, the Knicks need help at the position. Robinson actually fits into the system well.

And remember, we're talking about a sixth-man type. This is not a suggestion for Robinson to come in and start, logging 35 minutes a game. That would be foolish.

No, we're talking about a guy to come off of the bench for a team whose active point guards are currently Lim, Toney Douglas and Mike Bibby. 

Robinson would thrive in the Knicks system, with stars like Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony to run with. The veteran players will need someone to come in and take minutes from them, keeping them fresh for the playoffs. Robinson can do that, and more. 

The Knicks aren't in a position to be picky. But even at that, this would be more than a desperation signing. New York's unwillingness to bring Robinson in is going to hurt them in the long run.

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