7. New York Knicks
Notable Additions: Kevin Knox, Mitchell Robinson, Mario Hezonja, David Fizdale
Notable Subtraction: Jeff Hornacek
The Knicks had one of the most under-the-radar good offseasons for such a big market. Knox and Robinson seem to be excellent picks in the draft. The former is a very versatile scorer as a 6’9″ forward. He has a 7’5″ wingspan on top of jaguar-like athleticism. Every team wants a wing that can create off the dribble, shoot, and defend, which Knox fits the bill for. Robinson is another insanely long, explosive athlete who can stretch the floor. Those two and Porzingis are maybe the best young frontcourt in the NBA.
Moreover, Frank Ntilikina is one of the best defensive guards in the league already. The jury is still out on his offensive impact. Mario Hezonja has been an enigma so far in his NBA career. He is an explosive athlete who has yet to find consistent minutes and a role so far. The former 6th overall pick for the Magic might have just needed a change of scenery. He is on a one-year deal to prove he is an NBA player.
Also, it is worth noting Kristaps Porzingis is coming off a torn ACL. If he comes back at all next season and looks healthy, this Knicks squad could actually be pretty good. They do lack a playmaking guard to run pick n’ rolls unless Frank, Tim Hardaway, or Emmanuel Mudiay step up their game. However, they could have solid shooting, stingy defense, and fun in transition.
Lastly, David Fizdale could be just what the young Knickerbockers need. Hornacek was less than ideal last season and Fizdale has a solid resume to start his head coaching career. In the 2017 season, Marc Gasol (19.5) and Mike Conley (20.5) both averaged career highs in points per game in their lone full season under Fizdale.
Conley also had career highs in true shooting percentage (60%) and effective field goal percentage (54.5%). Gasol also had his best 3-point shooting season with 38.8% on 268 attempts. Before that season, Gasol had only attempted 66 total 3s in his first 8 seasons. It should be fun to see what Fiz does with the Knicks’ youngsters.
Next Up: Team 6
