(Big C) This season has to be the year that the Knicks improve on their defense. Over the last few years people have heard the Knicks, both players and coaches, say it’s all about defense but words were not put into action. With the addition of Coach Mike Woodson and Tyson Chandler the expectations for the Knicks are very high. Critics and fans want to see if the Knicks can put their words into action.  The player in particular that people will keep a close eye on is Amar’e Stoudemire.

Last season Amar’e did it all. He scored when the Knicks needed scoring. He picked up key rebounds when needed. More importantly Amar’e Stoudemire is the reason the Knicks regained their respect and made it to the playoffs. Stoudemire even played through pain and never complained.

Ama’re  never made excuses about why he had an off night. This season  the expectation for Amar’e Stoudemire on the defensive end will be high. Amar’e has made comments about defense and it seems like he could make it a reality.  Stoudemire has two factors that should help his performance this season…

The Chandler Factor

When Amar’e has Tyson Chandler playing with him to take all the banging and bruising Amar’e will have the freedom to move around  the paint or play hard on his man. With Chandler as the enforcer Stoudemire will be able to play good help defense and come from the weak side of the court to block shots. Or get steals.   Another advantage that Stoudemire will have by playing with Chandler is Chandler will guard the tougher opponent in the frontcourt. This will allow Amar’e to have more energy  to either put more pressure on his man or secure the paint.

Mike Woodson

Now that Amar’e Stoudemire  has Mike Woodson on the coaching staff he can learn how to play defense the right way. Woodson is the kind of coach that will tell a player their flaws and exactly what they need to improve on (no beating around the bush).

In the first two preseason games Amar’e Stoudemire seemed to play defense with aggression. Now all Amar’e has to do is continue with the defensive effort  every game.

Follow me on Twitter        Twitter.com/fromthebaseline