From left to right, who are these cats?
This photos is significant because it illustrates that the Knicks will be, for better or for worse, a different team this year. In this photo, there are three returning Knicks. Out of a roster of 15 guys last year, we only have four Knicks returning from the roster. Four minus three. Who is the one missing? Eddy Curry. Obviously Eddy Curry is once again not with the program, but I’m not surprising you by writing this, am I?
A new point guard. A new POWERFUL power forward. We are building with Danilo, Chandler and Douglas, for now. Donnie continues to shuffle the deck, but recent irratic acts by the owner indicate time may be running out for Donnie Walsh and/or coach Mike D’Antoni.
I wonder how well Landry Fields will play against real NBA competition shooting guards. He may be our best bet opening night at two guard if Danilo isn’t moved over to accomidate probable starter Anthony Randolph.
I like what I see with the Russian so far, looks like a young Rik Smits out there and despite naturally disliking Smits as a Knicks fan, I have seen many a game where he gave the Knicks troubles due to his sheer size and ability on the floor.
If the US wins their elimination game today (go USA!) and Russian wins their elimination game today, Tim Mozgov will really test the waters of NBA competition, because our young center will play against the best centers in the NBA (well, the ones that decided to play in FIBA this year).
Knicks fans everywhere will tune in to scout Mozgov versus Lamar Odom, Tyson Chandler, Kevin Love and possibly even Kevin Durant, if the US beats Angola and Russia beats their opponent today.
When was the last time we had a guy like this play in New York?
We need a shotblocker. Is that what Anthony Randolph is? Will he develop into a Marcus Camby for us? Maybe a Tayshaun Prince? What does Donnie Walsh see in Anthony Randolph, because quite frankly, I have not seen much of his game even after combing youtube in search of Anthony Randolph highlights.
Mozgov will be our starting center by December, if not sooner.
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
watching Russia against New Zeland. russian was down 10-2 in the first quarter, Mozgov came into the game off the bench, he did not start, and his presence was immediately felt.
Mozgov got his own offensive rebound, then, in the same possession completed a three point play. the next time down the floor, he muscled his man down into the paint and went straight up with aggression.
Mozgov may not start, but they go to him when he is in the game, and he produces. He has length, size, strength, and he does rebound, despite what Alan Hahn having said otherwise. How much has Alan seen of this kid, anyway?
He has power. The next game he plays may be against the US team’s big men!
Mozgov got into foul trouble and is sitting the rest of the second half. the fiba announcers anticipate a big second half from mozgov who is “deadly inside.”
Mozgov has been the MVP in my opinion. He doesn’t shy away from contact, reads passing lanes, dives for steals, converts on multiple three point plays.
I think the game against the US will be good for Mozgov. He needs to stay out of foul trouble though, that was his only problem against NZL.
http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/39029577/ns/sports-player_news/
http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/09/knicks-signee-timofey-mozgov-shows-off-his-potential-in-turkey.php