New York Knicks head coach Mike D'Antoni resigned today. The fact that he eventually separated from the team is not really a surprise. Knicks management didn't really seem to have his back completely, as they didn't extended his contract (which was due to expire at the end of the season). There was definitely a "wait and see" approach and unfortunately what we've seen has not been good.
The Knicks have looked pretty bad lately and it has frustrated throngs of fans who was hopeful during the "Linsanity" period of the season. Jeremy Lin was an unexpected spark for the team when superstars Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire suddenly were absent from the lineup. Lin plays with energy, passion and desire; attributes that are very much appreciated by New York fans. But while Linsanity took over the world, insanity has taken over a lot of fans. Jeremy Lin is a good second year player, he is not an all-pro. No one liked his story more than I did but too many fans believed the hype. Thankfully Lin didn't. He is one of the most grounded young players in the league which is definitely going to help his growth and longevity in the NBA.
Some fans are blaming Carmelo Anthony for the Knicks failures. On the surface, it may look that way. When Anthony was out, the Knicks were winning; since he has returned they have been losing. But it isn't that simple. Part of the Lin's success was due to the league not being familiar to his game. Adjustments have since been made. Drives, passes & shots have not come as easy as they once did (for Lin). Funny how the NBA works that way.
To suggest that Lin should be on the team and Anthony should not is absurd. Lin is NOT better for the Knicks than Anthony. With that being said, the Knicks will have to find the right mix of players on the floor. I happen to think that Baron Davis is a better fit as a starter and Lin would be great providing energy off the bench. With no training camp this year due to the NBA lockout and the Knicks trading half the team away for Anthony last season, this team needs more time to meld. Knicks fans are going to have to be a tad more patient and stop thinking with such absurdity.
