Amare Stoudemire is an NBA superstar.  He and Carmelo Anthony teamed up on the New York Knicks in an effort to reshape that franchise.  However, surprisingly poor results with both of them on the floor and injuries to Stoudemire have derailed that plan.  Stoudemire is due to return to the Knicks on Tuesday, but he will likely come off the bench.

In most other cases, Stoudemire would start immediately.  We see it all the time when superstars return from injury.  In this case, though, the Knicks seem to be acknowledging the fact that something needs to change with the team's dynamic when both Anthony and Stoudemire are playing.  Ian Begley of ESPN New York says Stoudemire's role will be as a sixth man - or something similar.  He will come off the bench unless injuries to other players necessitate Stoudemire starting, Begley says.


Stoudemire is coming back from on his right knee.  It was the third surgery Stoudemire has had on his knees.  The Knicks hope he will return the same player - just in a new role.  Despite the fact that Stoudemire could work his way back as a starter, coach Mike Woodson has been contemplating using Stoudemire as a reserve for the remainder of the season.

Stoudemire has averaged 21.6 points per game and 8.8 rebounds per game in his career.  He has not played in the regular season at all this season.  Stoudemire is entering his third year with the Knicks after spending the majority of his career with the Phoenix Suns.
Follow @hoopsinjurynews