Hmm... Needs More Energy

During the past two weeks, I've noticed one major absence in the Knicks roster. No, it's not Mardy Collins (this time). It's the lack of an energy player off of the bench.

Sure, Nate Robinson is there, but his stature limits his abilities. He can't get a clean layup in the paint and is often relegated to shooting three-pointers. What the team needs is a player similar to Robinson, in terms of energy, athleticism and defensive prowess, but a lot taller and more physical.

The Knicks have an extremely easy shot at acquiring such a player, as he currently plays in their developmental franchise, the Reno Bighorns.

Patrick Ewing Jr. would be a perfect fit for the Knicks. He is 6'8", 240lbs, and can get to the ball. Right now, he's averaging 16 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.4 steals and 1.2 blocks for Reno.

He's played with most of the Knicks' players already, albeit only in the summer, but it's not like he is walking into a completely different locker room.

Also, the Bighorns have a running offense, similar to Mike D'Antoni's, so Ewing Jr. would not have to make major adjustments when he enters the NBA.

Another reason New York should get him, is their short bench. They have 14 men on their roster, and three (Eddy Curry, Jerome James, and Stephon Marbury) haven't seen any action all year. I'd be surprised if they do.

That leaves 11 active players. In that group, there are two elite players: David Lee and Nate Robinson. Both can get the ball where it needs to go and excite the crowd.

Now we're left with 8. Pull Danilo Gallinari and Chris Duhon out of the pile, and you're left with 5 duds and Jared Jeffries. That's 6 active players that cannot do more than one thing well. Ewing can do multiple things at an above average level.

Give Ewing Jr. the 15th spot on the roster, deactivate Malik Rose or whoever is hurt, that night, and watch the team's production go up.

End rant.

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Here's a great picture of former New Jersey Net Kerry Kittles:

Looking like a G, Kerry!

--Max Caster