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New York Knicks: Who Should Thrive Under Jeff Hornacek?

By Maxwell Ogden

Nov 29, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Phoenix Suns head coach Jeff Hornacek looks on against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. The Suns beat the Raptors 107-102. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 29, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Phoenix Suns head coach Jeff Hornacek looks on against the Toronto Raptors at Air Canada Centre. The Suns beat the Raptors 107-102. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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March 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Derrick Williams (23) moves the ball up court against Los Angeles Clippers during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
March 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Derrick Williams (23) moves the ball up court against Los Angeles Clippers during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Honorable Mention: Derrick Williams

Position: Forward
Age: 24 (5/25/1991)
Slash Line: .450/.293/.758
Season Averages: 17.9 MPG, 9.3 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.6 3PM

If the New York Knicks plan to get out in transition, then there will need to be players who can create such opportunities. There will also need to be finishers who can operate off-ball and play above the rim.

Derrick Williams can provide a bit of both for head coach Jeff Hornacek.

Williams became something of a fan favorite in 2015-16 due to his uncanny ability to grab a defensive rebound, turn up court, and run a one-man fast break. His energy, elite athleticism, and explosive finishing ability tantalized the masses.

In 2016-17, he’ll actually be in a system that fits his skill set.

Clearly, Williams has a player option—the reason why he’s an honorable mention and not an easy Top 5 ranking. He previously stated that he wants to return to New York, however, and Hornacek’s hiring should only increase his interest.

Williams can have the best season of his NBA career under Hornacek’s watch.

Next: Penetrating Playmaker

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