The Knicks finally have an All-Star starter.
It became official Thursday with Amar’e Stoudemire announced as winner of the fan vote as the Eastern Conference’s starting power forward, his sixth All-Star nod and the first Knicks starter voted in since Patrick Ewing in 1992.
Stoudemire rallied to pass Boston’s Kevin Garnett in the voting two weeks ago.
“All I can say is thanks to the fans for voting.” Stoudemire said recently when his lead over Garnett became secure. “With team success, fans are more appreciative and vote more.”
The Knicks could gain another All-Star for the game Feb. 20 via the coach’s vote that will be revealed in one week, but that is now precarious. Point guard Raymond Felton looked to be a top-notch candidate but his game recently slid and the Knicks suffered a six-game losing streak as a result.
Felton has never made the All-Star Game, but his average of 17.5 points is fourth among Eastern guards and his assist average of 8.9 is third. The Knicks may have to be more than a game or two over .500 to sway the coaches, as Boston’s Ray Allen could get the final nod.