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Tim BontempsESPN
NEW YORK — Kemba WalkerA guy known for his constant smile.
Walker, however, was still giddy on Tuesday morning as he was named the starting point guard in his hometown. New York KnicksHere at Madison Square Garden with other new additions Evan Fournier
Walker felt happy because he was able to return home and play in an arena where he had built his reputation as a New York City legend, playing for Rice High School, then for the University of Connecticut. Walker also feels relieved that the knee problems that plagued his last season in Boston have passed.
Walker stated that it means everything to him, and that he is motivated to show that he still has the potential to be an NBA elite player. It’s what drives everything. It’s because I recognize what type of player I am.
“I am clear about the level that I would like to reach. That’s an additional motivation.
Walker’s purchase was for the Knicks a way to announce the return of the New York City legend to Madison Square Garden. They also had the opportunity to grab Walker at a discounted price after Walker agreed to a buyout. Oklahoma City ThunderHe was acquired from the Boston CelticsIn a trade in June, or earlier in the month.
Walker signed a $18 million, two-year deal with the Knicks. This was the last offer Walker said he had to think about once he got the Oklahoma City buyout out.
Walker replied, “I believe it is,” when Walker was asked about the best time to return home. Everything. Perfect timing. It was a great motivator. It is a great feeling to have these men believe in me.
That’s all that I have. It’s all I need is someone to believe in my abilities. They do that, which I greatly appreciate.”
This answer — “I just have to get somebody to believe and in me” — leaves a very obvious question unanswered: Did Walker who signed a fouryear maximum contract with Boston two summers back, be sold along with his first round pick to make room for a new team? Al HorfordIn June, Brad Stevens was appointed the president of basketball operations. Did you think that the Celtics had faith in Stevens?
Walker stated, “I felt Boston believed in my abilities,” before shrugging and smiling, that “but they traded for me.” However, this is not true. “They didn’t have faith in me,” I say.
It is clear that Walker is New York’s favorite player. Fat Joe, who is a Bronx-born rapper — was wearing the No. The press conference was attended by 8 Walker jerseys. He declared afterward that Walker would be returning to All-Star form in the Knicks.
Joe stated, “He is the real deal.” Joe said, “He is certified.”
“Kemba’s like…when they talk about NYC as the Mecca for Basketball — he is that.”
Walker’s condition with his left knee remains the biggest mystery at the moment. Walker has had issues since 2020. After completing a 12-week strengthening course in the offseason, Walker started last season late and did not play in back to back seasons.
Walker smiled when Walker was asked if this would happen in his season. He said “You gotta question him”, referring to Coach Tom Thibodeau. Thibodeau was also seated with Leon Rose (team president) and Scott Perry (general manager).
Thibodeau replied with one word — “Playing” — and there was a lot of laughter.
Walker was also a part of Fournier’s last season playing alongside him. They acquired Fournier at the deadline for trade into the exception to trade. Gordon HaywardAccording to Charlotte HornetsIn a last-offseason sign-and trade deal
To try and do the same, Tuesday’s agreement between the Celtics, Knicks, on another sign-andtrade deal saw them send two future second — one highly protected — to New York.
Fournier, who is coming off strong performances at Tokyo Olympics together with the French National Team (with whom he won silver), said Thibodeau made it difficult for him during New York’s recruitment call.
Fournier stated that he felt confident playing in Japan. “It is really good. Thibs first told Scott what he heard me when we were talking on the telephone with Leon and Thibs. [before the gold medal game]Was “As soon I wrapped up the silver, I had no choice but to travel to New York to meet with you.”
That was his way to say a lot of rubbish, which unfortunately is exactly what happened. We did a lot for France. I was proud. The Olympics will be held in France three years from now. “We’ll be watching.”
Walker could have the same fate, as Walker. The Knicks are also trying to build on their unexpected breakthrough season 2020-21 by making another playoff appearance next year, much like Walker.
He said that he does not feel any more pressure to play in New York, even though he joked with people about how he gets only four tickets each game. However, he acknowledged it was different knowing that he will be playing for his home team.
This feeling is unlike any other. “It was like randomly feeling goosebumps,” said he. It’s an incredible feeling to feel at home. I think there is no added pressure. “As long as I am in an environment with great people, I will be okay.”