Knicks Rumors: Pros And Cons Of Hiring Jeff Hornacek

Con: Coaching Style

This is a question mark, and not necessarily a con. The troubling reality is, during Jeff Hornacek’s only three seasons as a head coach, the Phoenix Suns played through the strengths of their guards.

The New York Knicks, of course, can’t accurately call their guard play a strength.

Jerian Grant and Tony Wroten have potential, and Jose Calderon is a decent player, but none provide immediate value. Even if the Knicks were to sign a big-name free agent at one of the two guard spots, the elephant would remain in the room.

In the Triangle Offense, point guards are generally limited in their freedom to roam and make plays.

The New York Knicks have the foundation for a genuinely elite defense with Kristaps Porzingis and Robin Lopez. Those two excellent rim protectors led New York to a ranking of No. 1 in the NBA in defensive field goal percentage at the rim.

Even with Carmelo Anthony expanding his game into the role of a facilitator, however, one can’t help but wonder if Hornacek’s style fits—or if he was simply making due with what was given to him in Phoenix.

The silver lining: Phoenix utilized multiple ball-handlers, and that does translate to the Triangle Offense.

Next: Pro