2007-2008 NBA Season Preview: New York Knicks

Beyond the unfortunate press given to Isiah Thomas and Anucha Browne Sanders in the sexual harassment case that has become the foremost topic of the New York Knickerbockers' upcoming 2007-2008 season, much change has occurred on the basketball roster.

While point guard Stephon Marbury has had his own press for the strange and unusual in the summer of 2007, he hopes to help lead a team with a new front court in Zach Randolph and the still-developing Eddy Curry. Randolph came to the Knicks in a summer trade that involved Channing Frye being sent to the Portland Trail Blazers. With the drafting of future star Greg Oden and worried by the idea that Randolph may taint the Blazers' young roster with bad habits, Randolph was jettisoned to New York, with Knicks hoping to create a formidable duo in the post with Curry being the primary focus down low.

While New York has a lot to be concerned with in terms of who to play and how much players should play, the Knicks have a very talented roster. Nate Robinson and David Lee are looking to build on their previous two years in the league; Renaldo Balkman was a refreshing surprise as a scrappy forward; and New York was also able to acquire college standouts Wilson Chandler (a first-round pick from DePaul) and Jared Jordan (a second-round pick from Marist, who was recently acquired from the Los Angeles Clippers).

The improving health of the team also has caused a bit of a dilemma. Swingman Quentin Richardson has rebounded from a botched engagement, a family death, and back pain, and is looking to start as the small forward. Jamal Crawford, overcame ankle problems from the previous season and has gained about 20 lbs. of muscle to keep a hold of his spot as the No. 1 shooting guard for New York.

The questions of the bench has to settle themselves out, as Lee has proven himself worthy of a starting spot, but more likely will be the sixth man. Jared Jeffries, the Knicks' marquee free agent in 2006, had a disappointing year for New York despite his solid defense, size and versatility being assets for the team-he must figure out a way to play more minutes. Mardy Collins, the team de facto "big point guard" must also show up to play.

Not even considering other fringe players for New York like rookie Demetris Nichols, Randolph Morris and former NBA Slam Dunk champion Fred Jones, New York has a lot on its hands for 2008.

Marbury has said various times that the Knicks may able to win a championship soon-if they're lucky, they'll may make the playoffs.

Source:

youtube.com/watch?v=l_89i-QCP7c