Is Kurt Thomas the right choice for the New York Knicks at centre? – NBA Special Report (Part-1)
For the second time in its history, the National Basketball Association (NBA) is experiencing the lockout which has hampered the fee agency from taking place after the 2011 NBA Draft. Whenever the NBA comes back to business, the
free agency will transpire right away and the teams will rush towards the potential trades to add some strength to their roster.
While many teams will be looking forward to re-sign their players, the Chicago Bulls will face a competition if they desire to extend the contract of the veteran centre Kurt Thomas as the New York Knicks have showed interest in
acquiring the big man.
The 38-year-old Thomas, who played in the Knicks’ uniform from 1999-2005 and powered the team into the 1999 NBA Finals, was brought in by the Chicago Bulls in the last season from Milwaukee Bucks. Even though, Kurt did not have
a dominating first year with the Bulls and averaged only 4.1 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in 52 outings, however the veteran centre had the best seasons of his career with the Knicks and they are looking at him again.
Having two offensive powers Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire in the line-up, the New York Knicks desperately need an experienced player in the centre position to shore up the rather fragile back court.
Now the question arises that whether the 6 foot 9 inch Thomas is really the answer for the Knicks worries at the centre position. Let’s have a look at some facts to find out.
Advantage: Kurt’s Experience will be an asset
Being the oldest player in NBA, Kurt Thomas carries a massive experience under his belt which will be of great value for the New York Knicks. Thomas will be playing the 19th season of his career and can definitely add
the leadership factor to the team.
Kurt not only knows how to play at the centre positions, he has also learned all the tricks of the game and his presence and insight into the game will help on the court and off it. The New York Knicks who will be trying to make
a move for the NBA Finals in the next season can really be benefitted by Thomas who has been at the big stage before and has seen it all before.
Disadvantage: Kurt Thomas will turn 39 this year
Thomas might be bringing a substantial experience and insight to the Knicks, however he will turn 39 this year which creates a concern about how far he can provide his 100 percent on the court. Although Thomas’ playing minutes
were still pretty decent in the last season with the Bulls, however his productivity diminished as he entered the post season. However, he and the Knicks can take inspiration from Jason Kidd and the Dallas Mavericks, who stuck to their veteran and finally
accomplished the coveted prize this season.
One more factor that might play in Kurt’s favour is that this season is more than likely to be shortened one due to the lockout and lesser games will mean less fatigue and better performance when the Knicks make it the playoffs.
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