The New York Knicks might still be trying to figure out trade situations before the season begins, but the real task will be determining the starting roster. Phil Jackson and company are currently attempting to shop Iman Shumpert, Amar'e Stoudemire and JR Smith, but that is not going to plan and it is likely everyone remains on the roster. So with an abundance of guards and two inconsistent big men, who does Derek Fisher put on the court first?
Tim Hardaway Jr is hoping it is him. The young guard has heard his name circling around trade rumors most of the offseason while also hearing Jackson claim he is untouchable. Hoping that has upped his worth on the roster, ESPN.com suggests Hardaway Jr. could be the best starter for the Knicks this upcoming season.
With Carmelo Anthony and Jose Calderon already penciled in at small forward and point guard, who takes over for shooting guard? Hardaway Jr. is one of the better young players for the Knicks, shooing 36.3 percent from beyond the arc. Ian Begley of ESPNNewYork.com suggests the best idea could be starting Hardaway Jr. and Shumpert while having Smith return to his role as the Sixth Man. Shumpert helps on the defensive end as that is Hardaway Jr's biggest weakness.
The hard part will be what to do with Smith. Last season, the Knicks had their best lineup when Hardaway Jr., Anthony and Smith were on the court along with Tyson Chandler and Pablo Prigioni. There was not a lack of scoring with that trio. The issue is that defense was a big problem with those five. The Knicks gave up 111.8 points per 100 possessions with that lineup, something Fisher must consider.
The remaining issue for Fisher will be how to handle Stoudemire and Andrea Bargnani. Given their contract sizes, both players are likely not headed anywhere. The Philadelphia 76ers have been mentioned in a possible trade for Stoudemire, but they backed out of the deal once already this offseason so fans should not hold their breathe on it happening. He will likely get the nod at power forward and New York must simply hope that he stays healthy for the entire season. Bargnani will compete with the likes of Samuel Dalembert for the center spot.
The Knicks certainly have a lot to work out with their roster. Jackson continues to try and make improvements on a limited budget and assets, so Fisher will have to work with what he has right now.