New York Knicks news: Jose Calderon, Sam Dalembert to be starters

When the New York Knicks opened their training camp the only player assured of a starting spot was Carmelo Anthony.

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Outside of that, the Knicks’ starting five (well, technically starting four) was open for business. Head coach Derek Fisher has played around with a few lineups to see how things would work with the triangle offense which included Iman Shumpert and J.R. Smith at the point guard position.

However it appears as if Jose Calderon, the more traditional point guard, along with big man Sam Dalembert will be given a spot in the starting lineup according to New York Knicks president Phil Jackson.

"Jackson said Jose Calderon and Sam Dalembert will probably start at point guard and center, respectively."

Keep in mind this is coming from Jackson, not Derek Fisher though what Jackson wants he usually gets.

With Dalembert at center and Calderon at the point guard, that leaves shooting guard and power forward as the only two positions in need of a starter for the New York Knicks.

In terms of a starter at the two spot, it could either be Iman Shumpert, J.R. Smith or Tim Hardaway Jr. The most likely candidate would be Shumpert given his ability to not only hit from outside but to provide the strongest defense out of the three. Smith seems to be best used off the bench while Hardaway will be able to handle both guard positions.

As for the power forward slot, that decision seems likely to fall upon either Amar’e Stoudemire or Andrea Bargnani. It’s unlikely whomever is picked will be a major factor as the two are essentially interchangeable though Bargnani may fit within the triangle offense better thanks to his deep shooting ability. The Knicks are also said to be considering giving Stoudemire additional time off to remain healthy.

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