Stoudemire says he is content with role for the Knicks.
Despite putting in his best performance of the season since his return from injury, New York Knicks power forward Amar’e Stoudemire says he has “no problem” with 30-minute maximum appearances.
Stoudemire scored a season-high 22 points and went 9-for-10 shooting in the Knicks’ win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday night.
However, according Knicks Coach Mike Woodson and the medical staff, Stoudemire will remain playing 30 minutes or less for the foreseeable future.
“I have no problem with that. You can be very productive in 30 minutes and so that’s my motto right now, to really come out and be aggressive and efficient in 30 minutes. I think it’s more so just about playing smart basketball offensively,” he told the media as reported by ESPN.
Woodson revealed that the reason behind the 30 minute cap is for the long-term benefit it will give Stoudemire, having come off knee surgery in the off-season this strategy could help prolong his career rather than put stress on it for short-term gain.
Stoudemire’s acceptance of his new role has gone down well with team-mate Carmelo Anthony, who said: “For him to do that, we as players see that and we respect him for that. We have his back.”
It has been a productive return for the Knicks big man, as he has improved his offensive game as well as being a dependable force on the defensive end.
Moving in closer to the basket to score points as opposed to his usual preference of mid-range jump shots has helped increase his productivity.
Provided he continues getting minutes and scoring points to help the Knicks maintain their push in the Eastern Conference, all parties concerned will be happy with the current set-up.
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