The NBA's long-awaited and highly anticipated summer of 2010 has gotten off to start, with little player movement to date. With the news that Amar'e Stoudemire has agreed to a five-year, $99.7 million deal with the New York Knicks, things may be starting to change.
Every free agent seemingly has been awaited for the crown jewel of this class, LeBron James, to make a move. While players have taken visits to a number of teams since the clock struck 12:01 on July 1, the general feeling has been that no team in the running for James will act until the two-time defending MVP makes a decision. The Knicks have decided to take a different approach, agreeing to a deal with Stoudemire on Monday.
How this affects the Knicks courtship of James, no one knows. According to ESPN's Chris Sheridan, New York has been assured by James' representatives that the signing of Stoudemire will not keep James away from the big apple. This second meeting with James' representatives has left many wondering whether James is seriously considering the Knicks, a team which seemed to be a long shot at the beginning of free agency.
Everyone knows that James is looking for a star running-mate, something he never had in Cleveland. At last season's trade deadline, a number of reports emerged that Stoudemire, then of the Phoenix Suns, was going to be traded to the Cavaliers. The deal never happened, and Stoudemire became a crucial part of the Suns run to the Western Conference Finals. Stoudemire has supreme talent, particularly on the offensive side. He has proven over the years that he can put up big numbers, averaging 23.1 points and 8.9 rebounds per game for his career. The problem is that Stoudemire has never focused on defense, something that has become important to James over the last few seasons.
The Knicks have spent the past two years clearing cap space in order to pursue James. But if James is serious about winning championships -- and I have my doubts -- the Knicks would not seem to be a a good fit. James Dolan is one of the worst owners is professional sports. Mike D'Antoni runs a fun offense, but pays little attention to defense. Other than Stoudemire, the Knicks roster isn't loaded with players that could help lead James to a championship. What the Knicks do have is New York City and Madison Square Garden. James has always enjoyed his trips to the Garden, putting on more incredible performances each game. Celebrities would flock to MSG every night with James on the team, and he has never shied away from a chance to mix it up with the rich and famous.
Signing Stoudemire was a smart move for the Knicks. More importantly, it gives James yet another thing to think about.
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