Responsibility
Though it's unfair to take a routine 25 minute-per-game player and give him second-tier scoring responsibilities, the Knicks don't have much of a choice. It seems ironic, but J.R. Smith could end up being the guy who determines the Knicks' playoff outlook.
The role of sixth man, as defined by John Havlicek, James Harden (OKC) and the 96-97 Sixth Man of The Year, John Starks is an essential role that demands the ability to be a game-changer. This is not defined by scoring, but by playing personality and tempo. We love(d) Starks because, for better or worse, he changed the game.
The moment JR steps to the scorer's table, the other team is aware of his presence. Recently, he appears to be playing under more control. He understands he can affect a game with his ball handling. The comment about cutting his dribbling was kinda cool because his game is grounded in his solo virtuosity. The bounce pass to Tyson Chandler in the paint was a beautiful thing.
More please.
Will he have flashbacks of taking too much responsibility? Of course. Same with Carmelo. They have convinced themselves they cannot be stopped. To the extent the Knicks failed to make the extra pass against a rugged defense is reason to revisit the winning formula of unselfish play, not the one-on-one chaos of last night.
Melo tossed. Chandler tossed. Felton and Brewer forcing early. Novak uncertain. Pablo hesitant. Kidd picking his spots.
Imagine, JR was quite possibly the most disciplined man on the court last night. Even with six fouls.
