New York Knicks: Realistic Expectations For Joakim Noah In 2016-17

Defense

Joakim Noah is one of the most respected and decorated defensive players of his era. Both individually and influentially, Noah makes an impact on the defensive end that few are capable of providing their team with.

The individual statistics are irrelevant for Noah on defense, but it’s fair to believe that he’ll get back to the point of producing quality numbers on that end in 2016-17.

Noah’s rebounding makes him a valuable defensive asset on its own. The fact that he covers so much ground makes him almost irreplaceable, however, as he finds the energy to switch off of the pick and roll, protect the rim, and work the baseline.

Considering New York Knicks teammate Kristaps Porzingis is capable of doing the same, the Knicks’ defense could be dominant with both players on the court.

Noah should continue to block shots at a respectable rate, but it’s fair to believe his production will decline. Porzingis’ length and shot-blocking prowess should enable Noah to be more aggressive in forcing turnovers and making physical statement plays.

The blocks and steals aren’t what matter for Noah, but he should be comfortably productive in both regards.

Realistic Expectation: 1.5 BPG, 1.0 SPG, 45.0 DFG% at the rim