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NBA Power Rankings: 2014-15 Eastern Conference Forecast

By Shane Young

Oct 21, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose (1) sits on the bench against the Milwaukee Bucks during the second half at the United Center. The Bulls beat the Bucks 105-84. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 21, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose (1) sits on the bench against the Milwaukee Bucks during the second half at the United Center. The Bulls beat the Bucks 105-84. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Knicks, NBA Power Rankings, Eastern Conference,
Mar 30, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) shoots the ball against the Golden State Warriors in the first quarter at Oracle Arena. The Knicks won 89-84. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

8.  New York Knicks — 42-40

Carmelo Anthony lost Raymond Felton.  He lost Mike Woodson, a middle-of-the-road coach that just didn’t fit with the roster.  He lost Tyson Chandler, a center known for his defense and huge tap outs on offensive rebounds.  Chandler, however, went down with injuries every time New York could’ve shined.

He gained Derek Fisher, someone who will demand (and receive) respect the first time he speaks with the team at training camp.  He gained a confident J.R. Smith, who could be finished with his bench days, according to Smith and his ego.  He gained Jose Calderon, a point guard that perhaps is smarter than Felton, a better shooter, pounds and pounds lighter, and experienced with various offensive sets.

For these subtractions and additions, Anthony and the Knicks are better than last season, not worse.

Amar’e Stoudemire working at the power forward slot in a triangle offense could work wonders, due to his prior days in the West guarding against it, and having the chance to play in a movement-style offense in Phoenix.  Stoudemire’s knees are a few hits away from resting in piece, but he re-surged last season and turned into a scorer again.  Still, no defense from him or Andrea Bargnani, but Fisher can be the one to preach it’s importance.

Anthony also gained over $120 million dollars, and a great deal of respect from everyone in New York for staying put this summer.

Playing within this offense as the primary wing who can make decisions, another scoring title is in Anthony’s sights.  He’ll have no problem getting it:

Having a better morale and stability without personal issues arising with teammates, New York’s playoff window has re-opened.

Their expectations should be moderated at first, though, as the financial capabilities aren’t there until Summer 2015.  Anthony isn’t seeking a title this season, however.  He’s realistic, and won’t feed you lies just for the sake of a good interview.  He speaks the truth.

All he’s looking for is the reasons why he stayed, and the two former Lakers leading the team will provide them in a hurry.