New York Knicks: 5 Reasons NY Will Make The Playoffs

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Apr 1, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) brings the ball up court defended by Brooklyn Nets guard Rondae Hollis-Jefferson (24) during the first half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

2. A Healthy Carmelo Anthony

Though outsiders will deem it an excuse, it should be acknowledged that Carmelo Anthony wasn’t healthy in 2015-16. He struggled to get elevation on his jump shot, which resulted in his uncharacteristically inefficient shooting.

Some may chalk that up to Anthony getting older, but it was more a product of his having a limited offseason due to the knee surgery that he underwent in February of 2015.

Anthony expanded his game in 2015-16, but his scoring efficiency took a massive hit. That was a direct result of his release point constantly changing as he adjusted to his jump shot coming from a lower height.

With a full offseason to train and get his body into game shape, Anthony should come back with a vengeance in 2016-17.

Anthony will have a chance to push himself when he makes the trip to the 2016 Summer Olympics. For what it’s worth, Anthony followed his past two Olympic runs by reaching the 2009 Western Conference Finals and leading New York to 54 wins in 2012-13.

If Anthony comes back with the same fire and hunger that he’s displayed in the past, it’ll be tough to deny New York’s status as a postseason-caliber team.

Next: The No. 1 Factor

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