New York Knicks: Players Who Will Exceed Expectations
Mar 25, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Sacramento Kings forward
Derrick Williams(13) against the Phoenix Suns at US Airways Center. The Kings defeated the Suns 108-99. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Derrick Williams is essentially the Shannon Brown of the New York Knicks. For those unfamiliar, Brown was a highlight-reel dunker with 3-point range and momentum-swinging athleticism for Phil Jackson and the Los Angeles Lakers from 2009 to 2011.
Williams plays an entirely different position, but the same principles apply.
Brown’s contributions played a role in Jackson, Derek Fisher and the Lakers winning two titles. Jackson and Fisher are now members of the Knicks, which makes it far from surprising that a player of Williams’ breed was acquired.
A hybrid forward who’s been known to throw down some monster dunks, Williams will bring a vital energy to Madison Square Garden.
Get ready for a loud crowd.
Williams may not develop into the star he was expected to be as the No. 2 overall draft pick in 2011, but he can still thrive. He’s a versatile scorer whose range and explosiveness will make him a matchup problem.
Albeit with a different approach to the game, Williams could play the 2012-13 Steve Novak role as a player who brings life to the Garden every time he hits the floor.
Next: Would Carmelo Anthony waive his no-trade clause? 'Hell no.'
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