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New York Knicks: Predicting 2016-17 Statistical Leaders

By Geoffrey Campbell

Feb 26, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) slam dunks the ball against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks defeated the Magic 108-95. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 26, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) slam dunks the ball against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks defeated the Magic 108-95. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 26, 2015; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Brandon Jennings (7) before the game against the Boston Celtics at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2015; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Brandon Jennings (7) before the game against the Boston Celtics at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /

Steals

2015-2016: Carmelo Anthony/Jose Calderon/Langston Galloway – 0.9 SPG

Prediction for 2016-2017: Brandon Jennings – 1.2 SPG

Brandon Jennings is a major wildcard for the 2016-17 New York Knicks. While he is certainly a streaky shooter, during Jennings’ first six seasons in the NBA, he never averaged less than a steal per game.

Coming off the bench, Jennings will need to do more than score to get consistent minutes. Phil Jackson has challenged Jennings to win the Sixth Man of the Year award.

According to Ian Begley for ESPN, Jennings confirmed Jackson’s challenge.

"“He said he expects me to be sixth man of the year,” Jennings said Friday. “So I’m definitely gonna embrace that role. I don’t see why I can’t be in that conversation, and I’m fine with it. I’m definitely fine with it.”"

Jennings’ contact situation is another reason to expect good offensive and defensive play. Jennings is currently on a one-year deal and has to show both the Knicks and the rest of the NBA that he still has the skills and health to be rotational player in the league.

The Knicks are especially optimistic that Jennings can replicate J.R. Smith’s season when he won Sixth Man of the Year back in 2012-13.

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