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New York Knicks: Every Free Agency Signing’s Key Strength

By Maxwell Ogden

Dec 7, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (13) reacts during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 7, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls center Joakim Noah (13) reacts during the second half against the Phoenix Suns at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 21, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Courtney Lee (5) dribbles the ball against Denver Nuggets center Joffrey Lauvergne (77) in the fourth quarter at the Pepsi Center. The Grizzlies defeated the Nuggets 102-101. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 21, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Courtney Lee (5) dribbles the ball against Denver Nuggets center Joffrey Lauvergne (77) in the fourth quarter at the Pepsi Center. The Grizzlies defeated the Nuggets 102-101. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Courtney Lee: Perimeter Defense

Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 30 (10/3/1985)
2015-16 Slash Line: .454/.378/.839
2015-16 Season Averages: 29.5 MPG, 9.6 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.0 3PM

Nothing plagued the New York Knicks more in 2015-16 than the absence of consistent perimeter defense. Jose Calderon and Sasha Vujacic lacked the necessary lateral quickness, Arron Afflalo’s effort was questioned, and Langston Galloway and Jerian Grant received sporadic playing time.

In 2016-17, the Knicks have a starter who has a track record of committing to playing defense at a high level: Courtney Lee.

Lee has 50 games of postseason experience, and he’s accumulated that by contributing high-quality defense to the teams he’s played for. His effort has been questioned in the past, but when his role is defined, he has no problem filling it.

Lee held opponents to 41.8 percent shooting during the 2015-16 regular season and 42.9 percent shooting during the 2016 NBA Playoffs.

Lee’s efficient shooting will be of invaluable aid to the Knicks, as well. He shot 40.3 percent on catch-and-shoot 3-point field goals in 2015-16, shot 43.8 percent on midrange jump shots, and is capable of attacking the basket.

Lee is a true 3-and-D player with the versatility to attack off the bounce. Nothing will be more valuable than his defense.

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