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New York Knicks: Free Agent Small Forwards Who Would Fit Jeff Hornacek

By Maxwell Ogden

Nov 30, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns head coach Jeff Hornacek and forward Gerald Green (14) against the Orlando Magic at US Airways Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 30, 2014; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns head coach Jeff Hornacek and forward Gerald Green (14) against the Orlando Magic at US Airways Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 18, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Jared Dudley (1) shoots as Utah Jazz forward Trevor Booker (33) looks on during the first half at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 18, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Jared Dudley (1) shoots as Utah Jazz forward Trevor Booker (33) looks on during the first half at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Jared Dudley, UFA

2015-16 Team: Washington Wizards
Age: 30 (7/10/1985)
Slash Line: .478/.420/.735
Season Averages: 25.9 MPG, 7.9 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.2 3PM

The key to the success of Jeff Hornacek’s system is the presence of shooters who can consistently space the floor. The backcourt must be able to create penetration, and the big men must be adept at setting screens, but the wings need to be able to shoot.

If nothing else, Jared Dudley can step in and help the New York Knicks from beyond the arc.

Dudley made 100 3-point field goals on 42.0 percent shooting from beyond the arc in 2015-16. That’s a very accurate representation of what Dudley brings to the table, with a career average of 1.0 3-point field goal made per game on 39.9 percent shooting from distance.

Dudley is more of an off-ball shooter than a shot-creator, but for the Knicks, adding that type of presence should be a key focus.

Hornacek’s offense is founded in the effectiveness of his team’s ball movement. His teams play through the post, attack via the pick-and-roll, and feed off of penetration, which only works with a cast of sharpshooters who can space the floor with regularity.

If nothing else, Dudley can help in the latter regard on a short-term deal.

Next: A Hornacek 3

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