Crazy⑧s
Evacuee
Perhaps the NY Knicks' most rewarding selection as late as pick 17 as it's had in its colorful history. Heads have been turned throughout the basketball world as Iman has carved his name in to the mind's of analysts and offensive opponents alike with that ridgeback's sense of defense.
For a rookie, to have an entire army of Knick fans relying on you as their best back-court defender is a harrowing prospect. Shump, however, has shown that he has nerves of steel when the pressure mounts, and, as it is said, pressure makes diamonds.
Shine for us, Iman.
The Ultimate Test
Shumpert's carved his niche and notoriety by aggressively, possessively going after the ball and his man defensively. Equipped with strength, lateral movement, a fine sense of anticipation, quickness and those long arms, this battle of Neophyte VS Finals MVP will be a centerpiece for the series.
Advantage: Wade. How could you say it's not? Stronger, faster, older, more experienced. It's hardly like he's missing any credentials in a head to head with anyone.
Not to discredit Shump for his efforts, but he'll have his hands (and feet) full to the brim against the league's elite transition SG. Shumpert's aggressive style should, hopefully at least, have the benefit of a more lenient whistle in the playoffs, and his man to man tenacity will play a role throughout against the enigmatic Wade.
Verdict: As valiantly as he'll play - and you know he will - Shump's inexperience and outmatching opponent will most likely get the better of him. He'll turn some heads, never you mind, and this will be the first ripple in a tsunami of Shumpert shutdowns as his career progresses.
