New York Knicks

Should The New York Knicks Go After Kemba Walker In 2019?

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One of the most uncertain positions on the New York Knicks’ roster is at point guard; Frank Ntilikina has struggled to solidify himself as the starter moving forward. His defensive abilities are more than serviceable, but he must show more on offense for him to be considered the PG moving forward.

Having a quality point guard will help Kristaps Porzingis and Kevin Knox utilize their talents efficiently. One player that could be a potential option in 2019 aside from Kyrie Iriving is Kemba walker.

Where is Kemba Walker in his career and does it make sense for the New York Knicks to chase him?

The Hornets veteran PG is going into his eighth season as a professional. Walker had the second highest FG% in his career last season, finishing up hitting .431 of his shots. His three point completion percentage was the second highest it has ever been at .384.

Overall, he had a stellar season just one year ago, and after 2018, he will be ready to make a move to a team that’s on the up and up. Walker has always been a player for the spotlight, and he would fit perfectly with the Knicks team trying to rejuvenate the ever-so active fan base in New York.

The veteran will make $12 million in the season ahead, but will be looking to enjoy a serious raise once he hits the free agent market. He stated that he plans to stay with the Hornets a long time…how many times have we heard that before?

The players will go where the money goes, and the Knicks will have enough cap space for one max contract. Getting rid of Joakim Noah will also add to their financial mobility.

The major concern with Kemba is his age, and paying a player upwards of $25 million per season into their 30’s is a major concern. His abilities as a player are extremely attractive, but laying out that kind of cash will scare away several potential suitors, and one of them could be the Knicks.

 

What Kevin Knox Thinks The New York Knicks Can Accomplish in 2018

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While most 19 year old’s are either studying for their next college exam or taking a beer down on a Saturday night, New York Knicks rookie Kevin Knox has a different agenda on his mind. The first-round selection is prowling the tabloids for anything and anyone trying to degrade his team or write them off before the season even begins.

Vegas odds-makers have already put the Knicks at below 30 wins (29.5), but Knox believes they can be in the playoff talk with a crisp 35, according to The Post:

“People are sleeping on us with the 29 wins. I think we definitely can win at least 35 and get in that playoff talk. That’s my personal opinion. Everyone has their own opinion. But the whole team, I’m pretty confident we’re really good this year, that we have a chance to make the playoffs.”

Winning is clearly a top priority for the youngsster, but not in a personal manner. Knox believes he can be the best rookie in 2018, yet he’s primarily focused on helping his team compete as a collective unit, rather than a single entity.

Having the help of star forward Kristaps Porzingis will surely assist the Knicks in reaching Knox’s goal of 35 wins, but there’s no guarantee he will return until after the All-Star break, if at all. The big-man is the cornerstone of the team, but his absence will ultimately open up opportunities for Knox to attack the basket more often and second-round pick Mitchell Robinson to play a more prominent role.

We can surely cough this season up to rookie development, but Knox’s optimism intrigues me, and quite frankly, I think he may surprise some people in the months ahead.

How Far Away Are The New York Knicks From a Winning Season?

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It seems as if the New York Knicks are stuck in a purgatory that restrains them from besting the .500 mark. In the past two seasons, they have only amassed 60 total wins, but have been impressive in the loss category managing 104. In 2018, we shouldn’t expect to see much improvement, as it will take at least a season for the youngsters on the team to develop into serviceable NBA players, and we must factor in the absence of Kristaps Porzingis.

Will Kristaps Porzingis miss the entire season for the New York Knicks?

It’s more than possible the Knicks choose to sit Porzingis for the entire season to guarantee a 100% recovery, especially when considering it will likely be a re-building year for the team. We can’t rule out a decent season that could require the service of the unicorn, but it be realistic, it’s unlikely.

The real question is: How far away are the Knicks from a ‘good’ season?

With Kevin Knox and Mitchell Robinson already showing quality in the Summer League, there’s optimism for a quick turnaround. Analysts are already saying Robinson could be the steal of the draft – he was projected to be a first-round pick if he played a full year in college. It was expected he would take a few months to get into game-ready condition, but he’s adapted quickly and displayed serious potential.

Knox has been a phenom so far on the offense and looks like he could be the new cornerstone of the franchise alongside Porzingis. Personally, I feel as though this team could be a playoff contender in two years – optimistic, but with the effectiveness of the rookies thus far it’s not impossible. If Scott Perry can retain Porzingis and sign a few solid depth players the team could be in good shape moving forward.

The signing of Mario Hezonja also benefits the offensive side of the ball, especially considering the struggles of Frank Ntilikina. Rumors have also emerged of Kyrie Iriving potentially coming to New York, which would put Frank in a reserve role – his defense could be essential if this were to happen. It’s impossible to know what will happen, but the adoption of a youth agenda from the front-office puts the franchise in a much better position that what Phil Jackson left behind.

New York Knicks Likely Planning To Release Veteran Joakim Noah

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The New York Knicks are in a peculiar position – they have several mediocre veterans taking up a majority of their cap-space. To specify, center Joakim Noah is taking up much more than he’s worth, and the Knicks understand that letting him walk is likely the best option – but how?

According to  ESPN, head coach David Fizdale will part ways with Noah after training camp. The Knicks will use the NBA’s waive and stretch provision to release him after September 1.

Now, of course it would be more beneficial to utilize a Noah in a trade, but it’s unlikely that any team is willing to pick up the remaining two years and $37.8 million left on his contract. By waiting until after Sept., the Knicks can lessen the blow of his contract by spreading it out over the course of the next three years. While they will still be allocating a nice chunk of cash to a player not on the team anymore, it’s in the best interest of an organization trying to rid themselves of next-to- useless veteran’s like Noah.

It’s possible he rejoins the team and plays in the 2018-19 season, as he would be a nice tool to have in regard to the development of rookie big-man Mitchell Robinson. General manager Scott Perry has been unwilling to trade Noah attached to any high-round assets or young, talented players.

This leaves him with three options:

  1. Keep him on the roster
  2. Release him and spread his contract out of the next three years
  3. Find a trade partner willing to take on his contract without giving away strong assets

All of these options don’t seem too enticing, but they are the only possibilities the Knicks have in regard to Noah.

How much would the New York Knicks have to give Joakim Noah if they utilize the waive-and-stretch provisional?

Given the Knicks use the provisional, Noah’s cap-hit would $6.4 million, saving $12.9 million toward the salary cap. Additionally, they would have to pay $6.4 in 2020 and 2021. It’s a big-break in terms of the money he’d be making if they kept him – over $10 million per season.

So, you make the call – do you cut the veteran and save a good amount of cap, or let him stay and mentor Robinson?

 

The No.1 Attribute That Knicks’ Forward Kevin Knox Possesses

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After the New York Knicks finally turned the page on the Carmelo Anthony saga for the last time in 2017, things seemed to be on a positive trend. That narrative died rather quickly with the lackluster performance of Joakim Noah, the season ending injury to Kristaps Porzingis, and the firing of head coach Jeff Hornacek.

Getting through the devastating season took every ounce of energy from the team, but greater things were on the horizon, and nobody knew it just yet. Fast forward to the 2018 NBA Draft – the Knicks selected star Kentucky forward Kevin Knox and big-man Mitchell Robinson.

Knox has done nothing but impress so far in the Summer League, and is expected to play a major role in the years ahead for a franchise that’s starving for a glimmer of hope.

What the No.1 attribute that Kevin Knox brings to the New York Knicks?

When speaking with the 6-foot-9 forward, you notice how humble and appreciate he is. His ability to shield the arrogance and ignorance of others is what will help him succeed in the NBA. Of course, it’s important to be confident, but for Knox, he knows that his skills are more important than his ego.

Former Knicks point guard Charlie Ward stated:

“That’s the kind of superstar you want — a guy who will go about his business, not going to be talking much, but learning the ropes on how to get better each day,” Ward said. “New York is a tough place to play, but you have to have thick skin. He’s willing to listen and be coached. His whole mentality and attitude is one that will help him become a superstar in the league at some point.”

Being coachable is a factor that’s often overlooked in the drafting process, as pure skill can only go as far as the system behind it and willingness to adapt. Knox has everything you want in a young basketball player, and the fact that he’s just 18 years old should be a major confidence booster for every fan hoping he’s the real deal.

 

New York Knicks: How Will The Kristaps Porzingis And Kevin Knox Duo Operate?

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Despite the fact that New York Knicks star Kristaps Porzingis will be out for a considerable portion of the season, rookie Kevin Knox will begin his development in preparation of creating a dynamic duo with the unicorn.

Porzingis is still slowly easing his way back into physical activity – he’s been training in Lativa with head coach David Fizdale for the past few weeks. The Knicks will undoubtedly be considering next season as a re-build year, with a ton of youth that requires NBA experience and knowledge to take their game to the next level.

In other words, they’re playing for 2019, and with Porzingis back to full-health, the team will be hopeful towards earning a playoff birth.

How will Kristaps Porzingis and Kevin Knox team up on the New York Knicks?

The two forwards will have to adapt to eacothers style of play, as Kristaps tends to be more of a shooter and rim rattler while Knox uses his length and athleticism to drive to the hoop. Both are more than capable of scoring at will, but Knox will have to work on his defense to become a well-rounded player.

Passing between the two will be an essential factor of their production, as their height (7-foot-3 KP and 6-foot-9 KN) allow them to play close to the rim and increase their shot percentages. They will work off the point guard and keep the opposing defense honest. Last season, Porzingis was the safety net for a team that lacked offensive and defensive quality throughout the season.

Knox will have to learn quickly if the Knicks wish to see any kind of success in the months ahead, but we should allow him the necessary time to efficiently take on the rookie speed bumps.

New York Knicks: Taking A Look At The No.1 Priority For The 2018 Season

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New York Knicks, Mitchell Robinson

The New York Knicks are headed towards a rebuilding year with rookies Kevin Knox and Mitchell Robinson. Their young players will undoubtedly play a premier part in rejuvenating the organization and giving fans something to look forward to in the near future.

What’s the No.1 priority for the New York Knicks?

While the priorities range from defensive improvements to offensive capabilities, the No.1 concern should be building chemistry and cohesiveness. In other words, forming a competitive team. Right now, the roster is just a bunch of high-profile names, nothing more, nothing less.

The chemistry should be front and center for the youngsters on the team, with the veteran leadership of players like Joakim Noah and Tim Hardaway Jr. making a direct impact. Ultimately, Kristaps Porzingis, Knox and Mitchell, are the future of the franchise, and their ability to play efficiently with one another will be the dictating factor in the success of the team.

Despite chemistry being the top priority, defense looms close behind. With Porzingis, the defense will struggle to maintain the standard most are used to. Before his injury, Kristaps was ranked No.1 in the NBA in blocks per game and opponent field goal percentage. He will be missed dearly until his return after the All-Star break, if he can play at all.

Knox will be the focus of the offense, but he will be expected to make an impact on defense as well. He’s not known as a defensive player, but it’s essential he begins to develop the necessary skills to become a well-rounded player in the NBA. Additionally, point guard Frank Ntilikina will remain the Knicks’ top defender – his tenacity and gusto on D is impressive, despite his lack of offensive prowess.

 

 

New York Knicks’ Mitchell Robinson Expected To Emerge As Starter

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New York Knicks‘ rookie big-man, Mitchell Robinson, skirted the system with his eligibility in college and want to play in the NBA as a professional. His move to the big-leagues has put his abilities into question, being that he scarcely played against collegiate talent. Despite this lack of experience, Robinson has emerged as one of the most exciting young players in the Summer League, and expectations are high leading up to the 2018-19 season.

Mitchell Robinson’s trainer’s expectations for the New York Knicks rookie:

According to Marc Berman of The New York Post, Robinson’s trainer, Marcell Scott, believes that Robinson will secure a starting role sooner rather than later.

“I knew once they saw Mitchell on the court and saw all the stuff he brings to the table, the G-League would be eliminated from the conversation,’’ Scott told The Post in a phone interview. “I honestly think at the halfway mark, at the All-Star break, Mitch will be starting.’’

The second-round pick was expected to be a lottery pick given his stayed in school and played his freshman season. He chose to forgo that experience and jump right into the dog-house. Now, he will feature on a Knicks team that has rookie Kevin Knox and star forward, Kristaps Porzingis.

Head coach David Fizdale is helping put together a solid foundation in New York, signing Mario Hezonja and retaining Enes Kanter. There’s no lack of talent on the roster, but maybe a lack of chemistry. It’s accepted that the Knicks will be moving through a “rebuilding” year in the coming months, despite the drafting off two promising players. The future of the Knicks is 2-3 years down the line, and if Porzingis can ride out the wait, he could very well enjoy bringing success back to a team that has struggled for years.

Knicks: Tim Hardaway Jr. Can Be Much More Than Just A Missed 3-Pointer

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In 2017, the New York Knicks lived and died by the three-point shot, and come to think of it, that’s a trend that’s been consistent for the last few years. Heaving up three pointers has become the staple of the NBA, and the Knicks have embodied the trend rather seamlessly, despite being very poor at it.

Tim Hardaway Jr. was expected to be the guy to create offense on the court, but injuries and inconsistency has plagued his career leading up to this point. After Tim signed a four-year, $71 million offer sheet, he seemed to become complacent or comfortable with his role. There’s no doubt that he’s a passionate player and will be looking to rebound this year, but there’s no other explanation for such a downward trend.

Hardaway only spent half a season as a regular starter for the Atlanta Hawks. They certainly didn’t seem too keen on re-signing him, given the monetary advance he was asking for. Luckily for him, the overgenerous and often-time idiotic Knicks front-office came to the rescue.

How is Time Hardaway Jr. in the three-point game? Can he help the New York Knicks improve?

Last season, Tim fell to a 31.7% three-point conversion rate, while his career average was 35.2%. That’s a massive drop-off when considering the number it was prior to the 2017 campaign.

Former head coach Jeff Hornacek basically gave Hardaway the green light at any given moment, resulting in a ghastly 28% three-point success rate off the dribble. His offensive abilities, which is what he was signed to provide, were nowhere to be found. If he defense wasn’t enough to force the Knicks to reconsider, his offensive statistics last season likely have them scratching their heads.

How can Hardaway Jr. improve his effectiveness in 2018?

Here’s an idea…don’t shoot as many threes! As we stated before, the NBA has become a glorified three-point shooting contest, and Hardaway is losing by a landslide. His best bet is to take simpler, more efficient shots – none off the dribble and closer to an elbow jumper. He’s also impressively athletic and agile – he can easily take the ball to the hoop.

Moving forward, we can only hope that Hardaway become part of the solution, and not part of the problem.

 

New York Knicks’ Frank Ntilikina Primed For A Breakout Year

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New York Knicks, Frank Ntilikina

New York Knicks’ second-year point guard, Frank Ntilikina, is preparing to have a breakout season, despite struggling offensively in his rookie season. After Kristaps Porzingis went down with a significant knee injury, the French star was forced into a big role.

Ntilikina averaged just 9.8 points and 5.3 assists per game for every 36 minutes played. His offensive production lacked the spark that most thought he had coming into the organization. In 2018, he’s primed to take a major developmental leap. The young guard has worked tirelessly to improve his game and work on his jump shot to create a well-rounded attacking presence on the court.

How will the younger additions help Frank Ntilikina on the court?

Drafting Kevin Knox and Mitchell Robinson will help take some of the weight off the shoulders of the sophomore, although he will still remain an important piece moving forward. Ultimately, he’s the future point guard of the franchise and will have his chance to display his true potential in the months ahead.

It’s important to recognize that Ntilikina joined the ranks of the Knicks during a trying time – Jeff Hornacek was on a do-or-die year and the veterans on the team were crumbling around him. He was forced into a conditioning program that was nothing like the programs in France. Moving forward, he will have a solid supporting cast and several young players to develop alongside him. He will no longer be the lone-ranger of the team, but rather the veteran on a roster that features an 18 year old phenom.

This provides reason for hope in regard to Ntilikina, and we should expect to see major improvements in 2018.