Daily Knicks
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5 Knicks role players who will never be forgotten for their services

By Desmond Novack

WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 07 : Charlie Ward #21 of the New York Knicks handles the ball against the Washington Wizards at the MCI Center on December 7, 2002 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - DECEMBER 07 : Charlie Ward #21 of the New York Knicks handles the ball against the Washington Wizards at the MCI Center on December 7, 2002 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) /
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Iman Shumpert, New York Knicks. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
Iman Shumpert, New York Knicks. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

2. Iman Shumpert

After being selected 17th overall in the 2011 NBA Draft, it seemed like the future was bright for Iman Shumpert, as the gritty, defensive-oriented guard out of Georgia Tech was joining a Knicks team that desperately needed someone with his style of play.

Despite only spending three years in New York due to being stupidly traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers for almost nothing in 2015, the things Shumpert did for the Knicks will never be forgotten.

Following a rookie season in which he earned votes for the All-Defensive team, it seemed as if Shumpert was destined for greatness. However, during Game 1 of the first round of the 2012 Eastern Conference playoffs, Shumpert went down with a torn ACL.

While this would not have a major effect on his play, you could tell it hurt his chances of being great. Despite this, along with many other injuries he dealt with, Shumpert made his name known as one of the better defenders in the entire NBA during his time with the Knicks.

However, what most fans may remember him for was his insane athleticism. He was responsible for one of the greatest dunks in Knicks’ playoff history when he slammed down a filthy put-back dunk against the Pacers in the 2013 semifinals.

As unfortunate as it is that Shumpert did not spend much time in New York, I know several fans were very happy when he went on to win a championship with Cleveland in 2016.