We've talked about this a million times misterearl. Determine who our building blocks are and build around that. IF Curry and Lee are our building blocks we need to find players that compliment them. Shooters that open up the court and limit doubleteams. A backcourt that has versatility. And the continued tinkering of a solid frontline that will include a shotblocking presense. A tough interior defender that can help Curry(an admitted limited defensive player) to focus on offense.

Is this a fair assessment or will you somehow turn it into an anti-Knick rant?

I guess I will make my point this way. Before the season I said one of the biggest upgrades we can make to this roster besides a shot blocker is to get a truly consistent outside shooter. Someoen you can never leave open at any point so that we can open the court for the big man we have determined is our franchise guy. I was called a Net Fan who hates Nate and Q because they are all we need. 2 months into the season Isiah is talking about getting a consistent outside shooter in the draft or free-agency to open up the court for our bigman. Very soon he will be talking about an interior defensive presence. So again explain to me what is unfair about anything I say?

bippity - if I understand your building strategy, the next piece is a shooter to open up the court and limit double teams.

We are not in disagreement here. Jamal's field goal percentage, despite his courage and crossover move, needs to at least be in the 40 per cent range.

A backcourt that has versatility for me starts with a defender who can strike fear into the other teams off guard. Which is why I am intrigued by Balkman's versatility for backcourt cameos. However, whether he can hit midrange jumper is under review.

The best scorer in the next NBA draft is at the top of the wish list.

bip - don't overlook the value of persuasive veteran leaders when the coach isn't around. ie. the value of Larry Johnson as JVG's locker room enforcer.

I like Malik more as an assistant-coach-in-uniform than as a backup forward.

I really like Kelvin Cato as mentor and motivator to Eddy Curry. The bit about him following Eddy in the locker room just to piss him off before the Seattle game, was priceless.

Without veteran leadership on a young roster you have the directionless Atlanta Hawks.

I look forward to David Lee in his junior year.

I look forward to the education of Mardy Collins.

I look forward to best friends, Eddy (only 24) and Jamal maturing together. People forget Jamal only played two years in high school and only one year at Michigan.

I look forward to watching this Knicks squad bond as a team as the year develops

it is a work in progress

who's arguing?

not me

djsu - how can I be the man when you're the man?

I have no doubt that Channing will improve and will ultimately be a solid defender, shot blocker and rebounder. But his strenght will always be the J. And with our team as constructed is that ultimately what we need. I think with Curry up front you are always going to need a big rebounder next to him. Lee seems to be that guy, so my question is where does that leave Frye. As time goes by it seems that this means have starting talent on your bench not getting minutes/playing out of position or trading himm for someone that can help somewhere else. It really comes down to how Isiah shapes the rest of the front court. Maybe as time goes by he turns into a great sixth man. It's tough to tell at this point.

Posted by Bonn1997:

Posted by Bippity10:

I have no doubt that Channing will improve and will ultimately be a solid defender, shot blocker and rebounder.

Really? I still haven't made up my mind on whether he's got the toughness and instinctiveness and desire to do those things consistently.

Okay well when you make up your mind let me know and I will change my opinion accordingly.

The assist total improves

Me like

curry had a relapse (6 to's and offensive fouls)...will be addressed.