(Big C).  Players worked on certain aspects of their game during the offseason to bring something new to the table.  The objective for Knicks’ superstar Amar’e Stoudemire was to work on his handle and his outside shooting.  Last year Amar’e hit a few 3’s resulting in an average 44% from 16-23 feet out.  In the previous season Stoudemire attempted 23 shot attempts and an average 43% from downtown.
 
Knicks fans got a first hand look at Amar’e's new and improved 3 point shot with the 2 attempts he's made so far this season.  Amar’e was successful at knocking down both shots this season.  Here's coach D'Antoni's reaction:

"I don't want to exaggerate it, I don't want to fall in love with it, but at the same time it's a weapon... Both [Melo and Amare] can shoot the ball extremely well from three. Amare is more, if you get out here and just line him up and let him shoot, he's one of our best 3-point shooters”.-Mike D’Antoni source ESPN.com

 
If Amar’e can shoot a good percentage with the 3 point shot I do not see why it would be  a problem. He has been working on it in practice every day. The only negative would be if Amar’e started focusing more on taking the 3 and jumpshot more than playing the regular game that he's had success with.  Another problem would be the Knicks having to worry about  Amar’e  missing the 3 point shot and creating long rebounds.  Long rebounds lead to easy transition points for the other team. That is not something we want.

 
It could be very helpful if Amar'e limits himself to around 3-4 3 point attempts a night. If Stoudemire hits his 3 point shots then his man would come out to guard him and not occupy the paint.  Teammates like Carmelo Anthony, Landry Fields, and Douglas will then have the opportunity to drive to the lane without worrying about Amar’e's man helping out.  Amar’e playing on the opposite side of the elbow for the 3 will prevent Carmelo Anthony from getting doubled or make it easy for Melo to pass the ball to Amar’e out of the double team.
 
Another positive thing is Amar’e shooting the 3 could spread the court and make him a harder offensive weapon to guard. If Amar’e’s man guards the 3 Amar’e can drive to the hole for the dunk or go for a hard layup. If Amar’e’s man plays off Amar’e, he could shoot the 3 and hopefully knock it down.
 
Overall, I'm expecting Amar’e to take at least 4 attempts per game especially since coach mike D’ Antoni has given him the green light.
 
Too risky? Great strategy? What are your thoughts on Amar’e shooting the 3?

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