Amar’e Stoudemire got a big hand, but the Knicks didn’t get a big win and the $100 million man showed a significant amount of rust.

It was a new year but not the old Stoudemire. His season debut last night against the Trail Blazers at the Garden was rusty as old nails, and the Knicks didn’t start playing with any heart until late as another comeback fell short despite Carmelo Anthony’s season-high-tying 45 points in a 105-100 loss.

The best news was his knee came out of it fine.

“It felt phenomenal,’’ Stoudemire said. “After a high-intensity game, it still felt strong.’’

(Knicks coach Mike) Woodson said Stoudemire was “kind of rushing’’ on offense, but added, “We’ll get him back to the old Amar’e.’’

via Marc Berman of the New York Post