Amar’e Stoudemire finally has a realistic target date for his season debut following knee surgery. He said Jan. 1, 2013 is “a possibility.” It’s the first time Stoudemire has used a specific date.

Stoudemire returned to practice last week and has recovered to the point where he was able to participate in scrimmages. He had left knee debridement in late October.

While it usually wouldn’t be cause for concern to have a player the caliber of Stoudemire returning from injury, the Knicks will face an interesting task when they try to fit him back into their lineup. The quandary will come in the form of getting Carmelo Anthony, Tyson Chandler and Stoudemire on the floor at the same time, spacing the trio out and playing to all of their strengths.