The one thing the New York Knicks cannot afford is injuries this season. The team is counting on their starters staying healthy because salary cap constraints prevented the team from loading up on roster upgrades in the offseason. With players like Amar'e Stoudemire vowing to remain healthy all season long, the rest of the roster is expected to do the same. However, one player has already fallen as JR Smith is reportedly suffering from back problems.
Smith's injury history has been relatively positive during his time with the Knicks, but this season is starting off a bit different. The guard told the media that he is currently suffering from back problems that could keep him limited for the remainder of the preseason. Smith said that right now, unless advised otherwise, he intends to play through the issues which could easily lead to long-term problems and the Knicks do not have time for that.
An injury to Smith could be a huge issue for New York. The shooting guard is expected to play a huge role for the team this upcoming season as he competes to be a starter amongst a crowded backcourt. This injury could really swing the competition for who is put in with the starting five at shooting guard. The Knicks also have Iman Shumpert and Tim Hardaway Jr vying for the role. Smith missing any time on the court puts him a step behind everyone else.
Smith's injury sounds like it is not a big deal and should only linger in the preseason. According to ESPN.com, Smith might have the upper hand when it comes to race the starting guard race. Phil Jackson likes Smith's style and veteran abilities. However, Shumpert might be the better option down the road. He has the better outside shot and is a much better defender than Smith or Hardaway Jr. Jackson has never appeared to favor Shumpert. The young guard has been the subject of trade rumors for most of the year and likely will not return in 2015.
Alongside Smith will be Anthony and Jose Calderon at point guard. Jackson and Derek Fisher like the idea of Samuel Dalembert starting at center which means Stoudemire and Andrea Bargnani are battling for the forward position.
