HoopsHype.com Interviews

Maciej Lampe: "I don't know what's going to happen with the Knicks"
by Jorge Sierra / August 4, 2003

What came to your mind when all those players were selected and your name wouldn't be called on draft night?

Maciej Lampe: I was like 'What's going on here?' A lot of questions came to my mind.

When did you realize that could be a bad night for you?

ML: After the 13 first players were selected.

Do you think NBA teams made a mistake by not selecting you earlier?

ML: We'll see. You can't tell anything about a thing like that yet.

How big of a blow was it to you?

ML: Well, I was disappointed for a while.

And how are you now?

ML: I was not OK at the beginning. But I really liked New York, so it's not bad now.

Are you bitter towards anybody (Real Madrid, NBA teams...) for what happened on draft night?

ML: No, I don't feel bitter towards nobody.

How's been the summer for you?

ML: Well, we played in Boston and then in Utah (in the summer leagues). I didn't play well in Boston because I had to adjust to something different. Once in Utah, everything was OK because I had learned to play the way you have to play there.

What did you feel you were lacking in those games?

ML: Strength. They are much stronger there.

How are negotiations going with Real Madrid?

ML: It's OK, it's OK.

What has your agent told you?

ML: He tells me they are still talking.

Do you think it will take long to reach an agreement to buyout your contract with Real Madrid?

ML: I really don't know. It's not up to me.

But do you feel there is a chance you won't play with the Knicks this season?

ML: I don't know. I don't know what is going to happen with the Knicks now.

If all the problems are solved, do you think you will see playing time with the Knicks?

ML: It all depends on how I play. If I play well, I'll get minutes.

How much do you think the trade for Keith Van Horn -- who plays pretty much like you do -- may affect you?

ML: He is a very good player. You can learn a lot from a player like him.

What's your opinion about the Van Horn-for-Sprewell trade?

ML: Well, that's not something about which I should give my opinion.

Finally, do you see the team playing in the postseason this year?

ML: I don't know. That's not my thing. I don't even know who will be playing for the team this year.

Jorge Sierra is the editor of HoopsHype.com

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