The Overlooked Man In The Melo-Buster: Chauncey Billups

Billups (left) and Anthony. "Melo, they forgot about me!"

Last night, the New York Knicks acquired one of basketball's top five players in the form of Carmelo Anthony, by a three-way deal with the Denver Nuggets and Minnesota Timberwolves. As soon as Tuesday morning in New York, Knicks fans are going crazy over Melo.

While the fuss is obviously over acquiring Anthony - as it should be - there is one player that the Knicks also acquired with Anthony who is being overlooked. That man, is point guard Chauncey Billups.

Billups, 34, is a 13-year battle-tested veteran. He's been an All-Star (5x), he's been named to the All-NBA Second Team, the All-NBA Third Team (2x), the All-Defensive Second Team, as well as being named NBA Finals MVP in 2004 as a member of the 2004 champion Detroit Pistons.

Simply put: the man is a winner.

While Billups is past his prime, there's no reason for him to overlooked in this trade. Yes, the Knicks got their man in Anthony, but Billups is also a huge addition for this team. Not only does he provide veteran leadership, but he's also scoring an average of 16.5 PPG. In fact, according to reports, the Knicks are prepared to pick up Billups' 2011-12 option. This is a player who, along with Melo, is going to help to re-vamp the New York Knicks. Take a look at this starting five:

C - Ronny Turiaf
SF - Carmelo Anthony
PF - Amar'e Stoudemire
SG - Landry Fields
PG - Chauncey Billups

That starting five has a heck of a lot more to be excited about than the original starting five this season.

By adding Billups, the Knicks are getting a proven winner. For him to be included with Melo in the deal is a huge plus for the Knicks, and his talents - although he's on his last leg - should not be overlooked.

By adding Billups, the Knicks are better.