Know the Schedule March 11-17: Knicks and Wolves still have the best schedules

Amar'e Stoudemire's regular season is over. The Knicks announced Saturday that STAT would miss the final six weeks of the season because he needs arthroscopic knee surgery to remove debris, a similar procedure to the one that sidelined him for the first two months of the season.

It's a shame because Stoudemire was playing well in March, and he was just beginning to crack the 30-minute restriction. It's also a shame for fantasy owners who'd held onto STAT, eying a playoff run with the Knicks' strong six-week string of four-game slates (New York and Minnesota have the two best remaining schedules, playing four-game slates in each of the next five weeks).

Steve Novak looks like the beneficiary of Stoudemire's minutes, going for 20 points and five threes in the first STAT-less game.

The next best schedule belongs to Atlanta, Memphis and Washington, each playing four-game schedules in the next four weeks. Miami plays four games in each of the next three weeks. Dallas, Milwaukee, Oklahoma City and Phoenix play four games in each of the next two weeks.

Speaking of the Suns, Marcin Gortat could also be done for the season after suffering a right foot injury that will put him in a cast. The Suns will lean heavily on the Morris twins. Marcus has outplayed brother Markieff in their last five games, but both are worth a look.

The worst schedules of the week belong to the Bulls, Clippers and Kings, each team playing two games.

Here's a look at the rest of March 11-17:

Grid by Justin Kendall

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Photo by Keith Allison.

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Carmelo Anthony injures knee, won't return; no tests scheduled

Carmelo Anthony left Monday's game with a knee injury, and he won't return.

ESPN New York reported that Anthony tripped without contact near midcourt with about 6:41 left in the second quarter. Anthony headed to the locker room to get checked out.

Knicks sideline reporter Tina Cervasio tweeted that Anthony won't undergo any tests but will be reevaluated Tuesday in Detroit.

As just reported on @msgnetworks no tests (MRI or X-ray)scheduled for Carmelo Anthony, he will be reevaluated tomorrow in Detroit. #Knicks
— Tina Cervasio (@TinaCervasio) March 5, 2013

Photo: Keith Allison.

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Know the Schedule March 4-10: New York and Minnesota play four-game slates the next six weeks

Over the next six weeks, the New York Knicks and Minnesota Timberwolves both play four-game slates. That gives extra value to guys like Luke Ridnour, J.J. Barea and Amar'e Stoudemire, especially in head-to-head leagues.

Other teams with nice schedules include the Hawks with five weeks of four-game slates; the Heat with four games in each of the next four weeks; and the Bucks and Thunder with four games in the next three weeks.

The worst schedules belong to the Pistons and Clippers, who each have only one four-game week left and 20 games each. So keep that in mind when stashing Andre Drummond or picking up Donatas Motiejunas.

Here's a look at the next week of schedules.

Four games: Hawks, Celtics, Bobcats, Cavs, Nuggets, Warriors, Lakers, Heat, Bucks, Wolves, Hornets, Knicks, Thunder, Magic, 76ers, Blazers, Kings, Raptors, Jazz

Three games: Nets, Bulls, Mavs, Pistons, Rockets, Pacers, Clippers, Grizzlies, Suns, Wizards

Two games: Spurs

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Rasheed Wallace out eight weeks with broken foot, season likely over

Rasheed Wallace's season is over.

The New York Knicks forward is out eight weeks with a broken foot that will require season-ending surgery, according to the New York Times' Howard Beck. This is a real-life blow -- not a fantasy one.

Wallace, at 38, no longer was the fantasy force of the past. In 20 games, he averaged 7.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and .8 blocks while playing 14.6 minutes per game. It was to be expected from a veteran who retired after the 2009-10 season.

There's some hope that Sheed could return for a playoff run, but it's unlikely. Beck points out that it'd be difficult for Wallace to get back into game shape after a two-month layoff. 

Rasheed Wallace needs surgery for a broken bone in his foot. Out 8 weeks, effectively ending his season (tho playoffs possible).
— Howard Beck (@HowardBeckNYT) February 27, 2013

Lots of Qs about whether Knicks cut Rasheed. No plan to immediately, but that could always change depending on need/circumstances.
— Howard Beck (@HowardBeckNYT) February 27, 2013

All that said, it seems awfully unlikely that Rasheed plays again, even in playoffs. Would take too long to regain stamina after 2 months
— Howard Beck (@HowardBeckNYT) February 27, 2013

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Know the Schedule February 25-March 3: Atlanta Hawks' big stretch begins

The Atlanta Hawks have six weeks of four-game slates starting Monday. Josh Smith, Jeff Teague, Al Horford and Kyle Korver are must-own players in this stretch (and J-Smoove's fantasy owners should be happy that he wasn't traded). Devin Harris is definitely worth a look, especially after Saturday night's line (39 minutes, 21 points, four 3-pointers, four assists, a steal and a rebound). And also consider Zaza Pachulia in head-to-head leagues.

The Golden State Warriors and their sweet sleeves have the next best schedule with three four-game weeks, so roll with the usual suspects.

Taking a longer view,  Minnesota and New York have the most remaining games (29). After this week, both teams play six four-game slates. They're followed by Atlanta Miami, Milwaukee, Philadelphia and Washington with 28 games apiece. Houston has the worst remaining schedule with only one four-game week left (24 total games).

Here's a look at this week's schedule:

Four Games: Hawks, Bulls, Mavs, Pistons, Warriors, Pacers, Clippers, Magic, 76ers, Kings, Raptors, Wizards

Three Games: Nets, Bobcats, Cavs, Nuggets, Rockets, Lakers, Grizzlies, Heat, Bucks, Wolves, Hornets, Knicks, Thunder, Suns, Spurs, Jazz

Two Games: Celtics, Blazers

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New York Knicks sign Kenyon Martin to 10-day contract

The New York Knicks have signed Kenyon Martin to 10-day contract, according to Yahoo Sports' Marc Spears. Martin adds another aging player to New York's front line (Tyson Chandler, Amar'e Stoudemire, Marcus Camby, Kurt Thomas and Rasheed Wallace).

Martin's game has been on the decline in the last four years. In 42 games with the Clippers last season, Martin averaged 5.2 points, 4.3 rebounds and a block. He doesn't offer much, if any, fantasy value.

Knicks have agreed to sign veteran forward Kenyon Martin to a 10-day contract, a source told Yahoo! Sports.
— Marc J. Spears (@SpearsNBAYahoo) February 21, 2013

Photo: Keith Allison.

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New York Knicks trade Ronnie Brewer to Oklahoma City Thunder for second-round pick

The Oklahoma City Thunder have added a strong defender to its bench. OKC acquired Ronnie Brewer from the New York Knicks for a 2014 second-round pick.

No fantasy value here. Move along.

Check that, it is OKC's 2014 second-round pick going to New York in the Ronnie Brewer trade.
— Ken Berger (@KBergCBS) February 21, 2013

Photo: Ronnie Brewer's Facebook.

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J.J. Redick offers: Bucks offer Luc Mbah a Moute and a first-round pick; Knicks offer Iman Shumpert

The Milwaukee Bucks and New York Knicks have put in their bids of Orlando shaprshooter J.J. Redick.

The Bucks are offering forward Luc Mbah a Moute and a first-round pick, according to CBS Sports' Ken Berger. But making a move for Redick is apparently contingent on first dealing Monta Ellis in a "bigger deal" (see Smith, Josh).

The Knicks are willing to part with Iman Shumpert to add Redick, according to Hoopsworld's Alex Kennedy. Other players and a third team might have to be added to make it go through.

The Magic have told Redick that they're not shopping him but that hasn't stopped teams from inquiring about his availability.

One deal on the table for the Bucks is Luc Mbah a Moute and a first-round pick to Orlando for J.J. Redick, sources say.
— Ken Berger (@KBergCBS) February 19, 2013

The belief among rival execs is that the Bucks would only acquire Redick if they first decided to move Monta Ellis as part of a bigger deal.
— Ken Berger (@KBergCBS) February 19, 2013

The Magic and Knicks have discussed a J.J. Redick for Iman Shumpert trade. Other players (and maybe a third team) would have to be involved.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 19, 2013

Nothing imminent, but it's something to keep an eye on over next few days. Redick helps NY win now, Shumpert gives ORL another young piece.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 19, 2013

Photo: Keith Allison.

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New York Knicks watching J.J. Redick trade market; Bulls, Pacers interested

The New York Knicks are in the market for another sharpshooter, possibly J.J. Redick.

ESPN New York reported that the Knicks are monitoring the trade market for Orlando Magic bomber J.J. Redick. The speculation is that the Magic would ask for Iman Shumpert in a deal. No word on whether there's actually an offer on the table.

Rumors Saturday also mentioned Shumpert as a target of the Phoenix Suns, who may offer Jared Dudley and a future first rounder. Hoopsworld's Alex Kennedy tweeted that the Knicks would rather give up Ronnie Brewer. Of course, they would.

Also Saturday, the Milwaukee Bucks emerged as a potential destination for Redick. Other teams with "strong interest" in the gunner: the Indiana Pacers and Chicago Bulls.

The Bulls tried to sign Redick as a restricted free agent three years ago, but the Magic matched.

Knicks would prefer to trade Ronnie Brewer, but Suns want Iman Shumpert. They have really liked Iman for awhile. They nearly drafted him.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 10, 2013

Still no guarantee that the Magic will trade Redick before deadline. But if they choose to move him, there are plenty of potential suitors.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 10, 2013

Photo: Keith Allison. 

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Phoenix Suns chasing Iman Shumpert in trade with New York Knicks

The Phoenix Suns are dangling Jared Dudley and potentially a future first-round pick in an attempt to pry Iman Shumpert from the New York Knicks.

Yahoo Sports' Adrian Wojnarowski reports that "the Knicks have so far shown no inclination to do such a deal." Nor should they.

Shumpert is a young talent on a team loaded with aging veterans. If the Knicks were inclined to make a deal, the team would have to kick more players back to the Suns to make the salaries match up. Throwing in Marcus Camby or Steve Novak would make the deal work, but that's just me playing on the trade machine.

In the last 24 hours, Hoopsworld's Alex Kennedy tweeted that the Knicks are interested in Dudley, but he didn't have any details on who else would be involved in a potential deal. Now we know.

Woj also reports that Phoenix is trying to unload Sebastian Telfair for a second-round pick.

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New York Knicks interested in Jared Dudley

The New York Knicks have shown interest in Phoenix Suns long-baller Jared Dudley.

Hoopsworld's Alex Kennedy tweeted that there's no word on who the Knicks would offer or even if talks between the two franchises have taken place.

Dudley would add another sharpshooter to the Knicks' arsenal, and save Dudley from mediocrity in the desert.

Source says the New York Knicks have some interest in Jared Dudley. No word on who they would offer or if talks have taken place.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 9, 2013

Photo: Keith Allison.

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Jason Kidd and Arron Afflalo out of Knicks-Magic game

The New York Knicks will be without Jason Kidd for Wednesday's game with the Orlando Magic.

NBA.com reported that Kidd's sore lower back, which sidelined him for the second half of Sunday's win over Atlanta, will keep him out. Raymond Felton will start.

The Magic will also be shorthanded, too. Arron Afflalo will miss his second game with a strained left calf. Moe Harkless will likely start.

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Raymond Felton, Jason Kidd, Iman Shumpert and JR Smith struggle in loss

Raymond Felton's return from a pinkie injury was a disappointment. The Knicks point guard made just 2-of-8 field goals with one 3-pointers and 3-of-4 free throws for eight points. He dished three assists and swiped two steals but also turned the ball over twice, too. There will be some rust to work through.

Jason Kidd only played 15 minutes. He was questionable to play with a sore back, but gave it a go. He missed all three of his shots and the only category filled in on his stat sheet was two rebounds.

Iman Shumpert's start at the three produced similar results. He missed all six of his shots from the field, made 1-of-2 free throws to finish with one point. Ugh. He did get seven rebounds, two assists and a steal. Bad night.

Add J.R. Smith to the awful club. The Knicks reserve missed all eight of his shots. He did get six rebounds, three assists and a block. He'll be better more often than not.

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Jason Kidd, Raymond Felton and Iman Shumpert starting Saturday

The New York Knicks will start Raymond Felton, Jason Kidd and Iman Shumpert Saturday night against the Philadelphia 76ers, according to Knicks beat writer Al Iannazzone.

According to ESPN New York, Felton (pinkie) and Kidd (back) won't have minutes restrictions. They both believe they will play Sunday, too. Shumpert, who is playing well in limited minutes, is starting at the three, and could play up to 30 minutes. Fantasy owners should see how the three gel together as starters.

Raymond Felton is starting. Jason Kidd is playing and starting. Iman Shumpert is starting at 3 tonight.
— Al Iannazzone (@Al_Iannazzone) January 26, 2013

No minutes restriction for Felton or Kidd. They both hope to play Sun as well.Ray may get precautionary x-ray before Hawks game. #Knicks
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) January 26, 2013

Ray feels much better physically than he did before the injury. "I feel like a new man. Like I'm about to play the 1st game of the season."
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) January 26, 2013

Felton feels soreness in his finger, though nothing that wasn't expected. Soreness from bone bruises is gone. #Knicks
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) January 26, 2013

Iman Shumpert can play up to 30 minutes tonight. #Knicks
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) January 26, 2013

Felton fractured his pinkie finger on Christmas day.

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Raymond Felton expected back Saturday; Jason Kidd may sit out

One in and one out at point guard for the New York Knicks. Raymond Felton is expected to return from his fractured pinkie injury Saturday, pending doctor's approval.

And, now, it sounds as if Jason Kidd might sit out with a back injury, according to Knicks beat writer Frank Isola.

Raymond Felton expected to play vs Sixers. Jason Kidd (back) may be held out
— Frank Isola (@FisolaNYDN) January 25, 2013

Raymond Felton says doctors will take one final look at his right hand before they clear him to play
— Frank Isola (@FisolaNYDN) January 25, 2013

Felton's return and Kidd's injury come at a time when Knicks coach Mike Woodson is re-thinking how he distributes playing time.

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Amar'e Stoudemire good in win; Iman Shumpert plays 27 minutes

Amar'e Stoudemire nearly double-doubled in the Knicks' 89-86 win Thursday over the Boston Celtics.

Stoudemire scored 15 points (4-7 FG, 7-8 FT), grabbed nine rebounds and blocked two shots in 20 minutes. Not bad. STAT appears to be playing better in his last three. I still wouldn't touch him after getting burned last season.

Iman Shumpert's minutes increased to 27 on Thursday. In his third game back from an ACL injury, the sophomore scored 10 points, pulled down five boards and handed out a dime. He's not worth grabbing yet.

Jason Kidd kept rolling: 12 points, two 3-pointers, three rebounds, two assists and three steals. Kidd's play doesn't appear to be affected by the talk about his role (less minutes, moving to the bench, etc.).

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Carmelo Anthony could see minutes cut; Ray Felton back Saturday?

New York Knicks coach Mike Woodson is talking about cutting back Carmelo Anthony's minutes. Melo is playing 37.5 minutes per game, and Woodson would rather see him getting 34-5 minutes, according to ESPN New York.

Not a major cut. Anthony is having a great season, with averages of 29.2 points, 2.7 3-pointers, 6 rebounds, 2.6 assists, .9 steals and .6 blocks in 32 games. I'd keep rolling with Melo going forward.

In other Knicks news, Raymond Felton is still targeting Saturday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers for his return from a fractured right pinkie, ESPN reports.

Felton has been out of action since Christmas day. The returns of Felton and Iman Shumpert could lead to a reduction in minutes for Jason Kidd.

Photo via Carmelo Anthony's Facebook page.

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Jason Kidd's minutes to decrease as Iman Shumpert and Ray Felton return

Jason Kidd's minutes will be reduced as Iman Shumpert gets more game time as he comes back from a torn ACL, according to the New York Post. And Kidd, who is averaging 29.3 minutes, will see even more of a reduction when Raymond Felton comes back from a pinkie injury.

Kidd told the Post that he doesn't mind yielding minutes to Shumpert and Felton.

“They’re not going to overplay him right off the bat. So I still might have to play a couple more minutes,” Kidd said. “But as time goes on he’ll start to eat some of those minutes up for me. But also, when Ray [Felton] gets back, that definitely helps.”

Shumpert played 15 minutes in his season debut and scored eight points with two three-pointers, two rebounds, an assist, a steal and a block. He's 14-percent owned in Yahoo leagues.

Felton's target date to return from a fractured pinkie finger, suffered on Christmas day, is Saturday, January 26, Newsday reported. However, the veteran point guard wants to play sooner -- as in Thursday against the Boston Celtics. He is owned in 80 percent of leagues. 

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