While i'd love to do a Nets dynasty, or a team that's a strong title contender, the NY Knicks intrigued me as a dysfunctional family that needs some guidance. My job is to clean up the mess that Isiah Thomas made, and work hand-in-hand with new top coach Larry Brown to revitalize this team back into the playoffs, and eventually to the top. I'll start the season when I buy the game for PC, which should be in 2-3 weeks.
2005-2006 Roster
C: Jerome James
He made some noise during the postseason last year, averaging around 17/9/2. He fills the void in the center position and can block some shots, which should help us control the lane a bit. Zeke overpaid him (what a surprise) and if he isn't willing to work hard, then don't expect him to recieve more playing time than last year.
PF: Malik Rose
A hardworking veteran, Rose brings that veteran leadership and toughness to the lineup. He's small, but makes up for it with his witty play around the basket. His experience and defensive capabilities are vital if the Knicks are to contend.
SF: Quentin Richardson
Ever since Q-rich has been on board, Zeke has been pushing for him to start in the lineup. He's a good shooter who can run the floor, as well as post up on smaller guards. He's also a good rebounder, which'll help one of the worst rebounding teams in the league. His defense is his achilles heel, and don't be surprised if LB runs him off the starting lineup and push him to the bench for Ariza.
SG: Stephon Marbury
Starbury's one heck of a player, and lights up the stat sheets on almost every given night. The knock on him though is it doesn't translate to wins, mainly because of his "me first" attitude that follows him onto the court. Hopefully Larry Brown, like he did with AI and the whole Pistons team, can change him, and also make him play defense. He also stated that Larry is experimenting in placing him in the off guard position, so don't be shocked if he's averaging 24+ ppg.
PG: Jamal Crawford
Jamal Crawford has loads of talent, but hasn't been able to bring himself to his full potential. He's a good shooter and passer, and has one of the best handles in the league. He has the speed and athleticism to be a great defender, but just doesn't try. Hopefully with a man like LB directing him, he can be a more refined, unselfish, tamed player with solid defense.
6m: Trevor Ariza
He's one of the few bright spots on the Knicks roster. He's an athletic, non-shooting version of Tayshaun Prince, and he's a lockdown defender. Brown doesn't usually put in young players, but he'll have to make an exception in this young talent. He'll get the nod as a starter if Q-Rich can't meet Larry Brown's high standards.
2: Nate Robinson
3: Tim Thomas
4: Allan Houston
5: Channing Frye
6: Mike Sweetney
7: David Lee
IR1:Maurice Taylor
IR2:Penny Hardaway
IR3:Jackie Butler
By the way, I found Robinson, Frye and Lee's portraits...
