Jerome James

James will continue to thank his lucky stars for then-general manager Isiah Thomas, who signed him to a five-year deal at $6 million per year. James is averaging 8.0 minutes per game since joining the Knicks in July 2005 and should get even less chance in the frontcourt with the addition of Zach Randolph.

James used four very productive postseason games against Sacramento to fool Knicks president Isiah Thomas into giving him $30 million over five years. It’s a curious move considering the body of evidence that indicates James is a slacker. He will begin the season as New York’s starting center.

Much was expected of James last season and he thorougly failed to fulfill any promise. He averaged 5.0 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, riding the pine more as the season dragged on. With the addition of Danny Fortson and the return from injury of Nick Collison, James might not get many opportunties. And minutes during garbage time likely will go to rookie Robert Swift.

James was a big disappointment last year, arriving to camp out of shape and rarely playing well. Expect much the same, though he worked out all summer to improve his strength and conditioning. James has the best skills of the Seattle centers, so he could get the starting nod. But he'll do little for a fantasy squad.