Realistic Expectations
Having outlined why Carmelo Anthony has enough help to win, the rational question is as follows: what’s a realistic goal? The New York Knicks admittedly may not have a championship-caliber team—not yet, at least—but the ceiling is quite high.
No matter what outsiders are saying, the Knicks should be able to secure at least one round of home court advantage and one postseason series win.
The Knicks shouldn’t accept anything less than 45 victories during the 2016-17 NBA regular season. 50 wins should be more of a target, although the number itself isn’t what should be on New York’s agenda.
The key for the Knicks will be earning a spot as one of the Top 4 teams in the Eastern Conference, thus securing a round of home court advantage in the 2017 NBA Playoffs.
If New York succeeds in doing so, then reaching the second round should be an attainable goal.
New York has the offensive firepower and defensive capabilities to comfortably win 45 games in the Eastern Conference. Injury concerns certainly exist, but Anthony should be able to lead this team to the playoffs.
A championship may or may not be in the writing for the Knicks in 2016-17, but a deep postseason run certainly is.
must read: Which legends won their first NBA championship after 30?
At the very least, Anthony has enough help to make the 2017 NBA Playoffs and win a series.