LOS ANGELES — Along the way to his first NBA championship, Ron Artest and the Lakers knocked off Amar’e Stoudemire’s Suns in the Western Conference Finals last spring.
In fact, Artest’s catch of an airball and putback in the final seconds of Game 5 sent the Lakers on their way. But Artest got a great impression of Stoudemire during that series, that the Knicks’ 6-foot-10 big man had the stuff to turn the Knicks around.
“He has heart,” said Artest, before facing the Knicks last night at Staples Center. “I knew Amar’e had a chance to do it. The way he played in the playoffs last year, he has the heart. You got to accept the challenge, especially if you are going to be the man. You have to understand New York. If you can’t take the pressure, it’s going to be hard.”
Artest also is impressed Mike D’Antoni’s speedball offense has won over Knick fans, who traditionally savor the kind of rugged defense Artest plays.
“That new style that coach brings to the table, I was interested in that,” Artest said. “Obviously if it works, it would be great for fans. I know New Yorkers loves defense. I didn’t know how it would work in terms of fans. But he has those guys playing relaxed and confident in his style. He showed it in Phoenix. The weather is a little colder; you’d figure the shots wouldn’t fall as much. Coach is doing great, too.”
Artest was joking about the weather but he knows it’s hot in the Garden now. The Knicks are 21-14 at the 35-game mark before last night’s Lakers’ encounter.
“They’re definitely going to the playoffs,” Artest said. It’s still a long way to go, but I’m assuming the city is on fire. It’s a chance to grab more Knicks fans. I don’t know if young kids grew up Knick fans in New York. Now they have something to proud of. There should be a lot of electricity in that building, especially come playoff time.”
Artest also has something else to be proud about back home — his alma mater St. John’s is off to a rousing start under new coach Steve Lavin.
“It’s great,” Artest said. “Being from St. John’s, it’s been hard watching them. Everyone talking about their schools and alma maters and I have to be just quiet. Now i can actually say something and talk trash. Hopefully we’ll get to the [NCAA] tournament.”
Artest, as has been reported, sold his championship ring at an auction to raise money for his charities. However, he revealed he kept the box and also has a second ring that the organization provides for a family member. He gave that one to his wife.
“I kept the box [of the original],” Arest said. “The box is beautiful. When you win a championship ring, they give you a second one for family. The box I leave it closed. It’s nice. It twirls.”
Artest has not lost any motivation after winning his first ring.
“I actually came back in better shape, lighter,” Artest said. “I came back a better player. That’s because I love basketball. I’m already motivated. Until my career’s over, I’m at my peak motivation.”