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

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Oct 19, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Chicago Bulls forward center Joakim Noah (13) (center) huddles his team before the first half of the game against the Charlotte Hornets at Time Warner Cable Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports /

Primary Impact

The New York Knicks have found a genuine leader in nine-year NBA veteran Joakim Noah. Entering his 10th season in the Association, Noah is one of the most respected individuals one can find at any of the five positions.

Beyond the rebounding, facilitating, and rugged defense is Noah’s primary impact: leadership and accountability on both ends of the floor.

When Phil Jackson signed Noah, he acknowledged that this move was bigger than basic basketball. Teams can test well in the analytics, but it takes a special type of person to endure the rigors of an NBA season.

Championship-caliber teams generally have unsung heroes, physical enforcers, and locker room leaders, and Noah checks all three boxes.

Noah won the 2014 Defensive Player of the Year award for far more than blocking shots, picking up steals, and crashing the boards. He keeps everyone around him motivated and leads by example with an infallible work ethic.

Noah’s presence will be felt across the board, but it’s his leadership that will create his primary impact in 2016-17.

Must Read: Realistic expectations for Kristaps Porzingis in 2016-17

There are always going to be critics, but Noah is the type of player who can change the culture in New York.

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