Some games Douglas played well, playing defense and hitting shots when the Knicks needed a basket. However, fans and critics may only focus on Douglas’ poor performance against the Celtics in the playoffs. Many people forgot Toney Douglas had a major shoulder injury and was playing through pain the majority of the season and in the playoffs. Let’s also not forget that many players struggled during the playoffs against the Celtics who are the top defensive team in the league.

Douglas clearly had some challenges in his game because of the injury to his shoulder. However, Toney Douglas can’t blame his inability to run the pick-and-roll on being banged up.

The pick and roll is the Knicks best play and their main offensive strategy. Coach Mike D’Antoni loves to use the pick and it just so happens that this is the area Douglas struggles with the most. On the other hand in today’s NBA the Knicks might not need a pure point guard to be a successful. If Douglas can avoid turning the ball over and make good decisions when he holds on to the ball he just might be fine. Most importantly if he can show some improvements in adjusting the pick and roll he would be making great progress this season.

Knick fans will remember that during the short season after the previous lockout the Knicks made it to the NBA championship with Charlie Ward. Toney Douglas and Charlie Ward have many things in common besides being point guards and having played for Florida State. Charlie Ward was not the flashiest point guard and he didn’t have the knack for making great passes. Charlie Ward was known for his tough defense, ball control, and his ability to knock down the open jumper and 3 point shot. Those are the same strengths of Toney Douglas.

With Toney Douglas starting alongside Carmelo Anthony and Amar’e Stoudemire he will have many opportunities to shoot 3’s and hit the open shot. Douglas running the point can be successful. It's up to him to stay focused.

The ball is in Toney Douglas’ hands. It is time for him to get ready to run the big show.

Follow me on Twitter  Twitter.com/fromthebaseline