New York Knicks: Reasons To Love The J.P. Tokoto Signing

Jan 10, 2015; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward J.P. Tokoto (13) during warm ups at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 10, 2015; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward J.P. Tokoto (13) during warm ups at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 25, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward J.P. Tokoto (13) dunks during practice before the semifinal of the west regional at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 25, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward J.P. Tokoto (13) dunks during practice before the semifinal of the west regional at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Explosive Athleticism

The term, “Explosive athleticism,” is thrown around far too freely. Every above-average athlete who comes through the NBA Draft tends to be described with that term if they’re able to run fast or jump high.

With no hyperbole, J.P. Tokoto is one of the few players who actually fits the description of an explosive athlete.

Tokoto is a highlight reel dunk waiting to happen. Whether he’s driving baseline, turning defense into transition offense, or barreling down the lane, Tokoto can sky above the rim and throw down a one or two-handed flush.

For the New York Knicks, landing a player who has genuinely explosive athleticism would be an invaluable development.

In 2015-16, the Knicks ranked dead last in the NBA in fast break points per game. Head coach Jeff Hornacek intends to make a significant change in that regard, and his tenure with the Phoenix Suns implies he knows exactly what to do.

Tokoto isn’t quite as explosive as Gerald Green, but he can have similar offensive value in transition.

Next: Lockdown Potential