New York Knicks: Realistic Expectations For Carmelo Anthony

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Oct 22, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) keeps an eye on the ball during the first half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /

Defense

Carmelo Anthony has always possessed the physical gifts to be one of the better defensive players in the NBA. True as that may be, he’s long been criticized for his lackluster energy on that end of the floor.

The question is: will Anthony’s recent rise in defensive intensity carry over from 2015-16 into 2016-17?

Anthony held opponents to 42.1 percent shooting in 2015-16. That’s impressive considering his assignments shot 45.1 percent from the field as a collective, meaning Anthony forced a significant drop-off in efficiency.

That includes a massive decline from 35.2 percent to 30.6 percent on 3-point field goals—arguably the most popular shot in the modern NBA.

With Joakim Noah on the floor, Anthony has a player who can stay in his ear and keep him motivated on defense. Top-level scorers often need a teammate like that, which makes Anthony consistent with the rule instead of an exception.

If Anthony can continue to defend at a high level in 2016-17, he can help set the tone for the Knicks as a team. Leading by example isn’t an easy thing to do, but it’s in the job description.

Realistic Expectation: 1.0 SPG, 42.0 OPP FG%

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