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press5 Knicks Introduce Jason Kidd, Marcus Camby
The New York Knicks held a press conference today to introduce newly acquired players- 38-year-old Jason Kidd, and 39-year-old Marcus Camby. While some fans argue that the Knicks gave up too many pieces to obtain players with 2-3 years, at the most, left in the tank, Knicks GM Glen Grunwald describes their importance to the team. “They both bring a lot on and off the court. Both are still excellent players, they have been through wars of NBA games and understand what it means for a team to come together as one.”

Jason Kidd won his first NBA Championship just a year ago with Dallas, and he made it clear he’s hungry for another. “This is a great opportunity for me to help the Knicks win. Our goal is to try and win a championship.” The 18-year veteran also re-emphasized his decision to join the Knicks, “looking at the roster, it’s a no brainer that they have multiple pieces and the right coach.  The history here is so deep and when you talk about the best place to play in the world – it’s the Garden.

While the 5x NBA assists leader knows he could still be a starter, he’s open to playing whatever role Mike Woodson and the Knicks ask of him. “I still feel I can start but this is a role they need.”

When asked about mentoring Jeremy Lin, who has just 25 career starts under his belt, Kidd (1,302 career starts) expressed his willingness to pass on his “secrets” to Lin. “Hopefully I can share my secrets from the last 18 years with Jeremy Lin and he can take it to another level.” Despite Kidd’s genuine enthusiasm about mentoring the young point guard, he didn’t fail to reiterate his need to play the last 6 minutes of the game, which he considers the most important. “If you’re down 15 or up 15, you can win or lose in the last 6 minutes of a game. The last 6 minutes are the most important part of the game, and I’d like to be out there. I feel young, I played the most minutes of my career last year.”

Jason Kidd seemed happy to join his once rival Knicks, but no one was more elated than former Knick, Marcus Camby- who proclaimed he’s “thrilled to be here“. “It feels good to be back home, it’s crazy how things come full circle.  10 years ago I was here as a Knick and now toward the end of my career I’m back to try and win a championship.” The connecticut native, and 4-year Knick, is excited to be back in the area- especially so his family can watch him play again. “I’m back home and can play in front of my mom and sisters – that was a big plus (in deciding to finish career in NY). – I always considered myself a Knick at heart.”

Originally wanting a starting role, the 2007 DPOY seems content on backing up the reigning DPOY, Tyson Chandler. “I’m not going to step on anyone’s toes. When Tyson comes out of the game, I have to keep bringing that energy that he started with. And the more hungry and aggressive Stat is, the better we are going to be.” 

The 4x NBA blocks leader is also looking forward to opening night- his return to the biggest stage in sports. When asked about how he thinks fans will react to his return, Camby responded, “Hopefully with open arms. I’ve been getting a lot of love and respect on Twitter and I’m looking forward to opening night.” 

Knicks General Manager, Glen Grunwald, still thinks the two veterans, who have a combined 34 years of NBA experience, have enough in the tank for the Knicks to make a realistic run at a championship this season. “Marcus is a great rebounder and still a great shot blocker, and Jason is still a great point guard. We’re trying to put together a team that can compete and I think these guys can be a big part of that.”

All seems right for the Knicks as Grunwald, Kidd, and Camby are all on the same page- bringing a championship back to New York.