Knicks: Five Biggest Challenges Facing Jeff Hornacek This Season
4. Developing Chemistry
With some final roster spots still open before the start of training camp, nine new faces will suit up for the New York Knicks. As with any roster, it will take time for players to develop chemistry.
One of the positives from last season was the apparent camaraderie formed between the players. However, as Phil Jackson pointed out in a Tweet earlier this summer, he will take sacrifice over campfires and playdates any day.
Here's what: We have brought change to the Knicks team. The real dimension of change is how much the players what to unite in this change
— Phil Jackson (@PhilJackson11) July 15, 2016
He continued:
It's not about bonding and being friends, it's about joining in the effort of playing HARD on every effort. #respect
— Phil Jackson (@PhilJackson11) July 15, 2016
As a player, Jeff Hornacek was described as a hard-nosed individual who would do anything to help the team. As a coach, he will have to motivate and push this team to execute on the offensive and defensive ends.
Furthermore, Derrick Rose and Brandon Jennings, both on one-year contracts, are playing for their NBA futures. While some expect Rose and Jennings to be concerned with their own statistics, the veterans must realize that winning and staying healthy are the keys to their long-term security.
The real trick is developing chemistry within the hybrid form of the triangle offense. Last year, fans of the Knicks became used to seeing a stagnant offense with poorly set screens and slow moving cuts within the triangle.
Derek Fisher opted for a more fast-paced offense, but he was fired after the team went 1-9 during a stretch in February. Jeff Hornacek will look to get the team moving faster into their sets and making the offense more fluid.
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