This is not an ideal start to the season in Manhattan.
Amar’e Stoudemire will miss the Knicks regular season opener against the Nets, likely followed by another game or two, as he recovers from a minor knee problem. Al Iannazzone, who covers the Knicks for Newsday, broke the story.
Amare Stoudemire went home this morning to get his left knee re-evaluated. MRI revealed a ruptured popliteal cyst.
— Al Iannazzone (@Al_Iannazzone) October 21, 2012
Amare will be out approximately 2-3 weeks.
— Al Iannazzone (@Al_Iannazzone) October 21, 2012
This is, in and of itself, not that serious (if the cyst really is all there is). It doesn’t require surgery. He likely misses just a few games. But there are bigger implications and questions.
First, popliteal cysts are often a sign of arthritis or other damage. More chronic issues.
The other issue, the big question, is how does coach Mike Woodson adjust his starting lineup? I would recommend moving Carmelo Anthony to the four spot, where he can be very dangerous (he was for Team USA this summer) and essentially go with a smaller, quicker lineup anchored by Tyson Chandler in the paint. Start Raymond Felton, J.R. Smith, Ronnie Brewer, Anthony and Chandler. I’ve got a feeling as the season goes on that may be a very effective lineup for the Knicks. (Even though that could create waves in the NYC media as they see the team is less effective with Stoudemire on the floor.)
‘Melo at the four is especially smart since Woodson’s next likely option at the four is Kurt Thomas. Anthony can still be on the wing like he wants from the four spot, but if the Knicks are playing Thomas as the starter it’s going to be a rough way to start the season. (Technically the Knicks could go the other way and go big, put Marcus Camby at the four, but then there is no center depth and he can’t really handle the minutes.)
The fun is already starting in New York.