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New York Knicks: What Are The Expectations For The 2016-17 Season?

By Chris Priczak

Sep 26, 2016; White Plains, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (left) addresses the media as point guard Derrick Rose looks on during the New York Knicks Media Day at Ritz-Carlton. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2016; White Plains, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (left) addresses the media as point guard Derrick Rose looks on during the New York Knicks Media Day at Ritz-Carlton. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 10, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks center Marshall Plumlee (40) dunks the ball as Washington Wizards guard Daniel House (4) defends during the fourth quarter at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks won 90-88. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 10, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks center Marshall Plumlee (40) dunks the ball as Washington Wizards guard Daniel House (4) defends during the fourth quarter at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks won 90-88. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

New Additions

New York added several new pieces—Brandon Jennings, Justin Holiday, Willy Hernangomez, Mindaugas Kuzminskas, Maurice Ndour, and Marshall Plumlee— to their bench in the offseason. Along with the new additions, Lou Amundson, Kyle O’Quinn, Lance Thomas, and Sasha Vujacic have returned to the team.

There are a few rookie guards—Ron Baker, Chasson Randle, and J.P. Tokoto— on the roster, all of whom are competing for one of the final roster spots.

Since Rose didn’t play in the second preseason game, Baker and Randle saw extended playing time. Both guards were effective from three-point range. Along with looking solid on offense, Randle was also getting it done on defense, as he picked up three steals.

The former Cardinal totaled 14 points, two assists, and two rebounds in 21 minutes of action.

Carmelo Anthony praised Randle following his performance, per Ian Begley of ESPN New York.

"“I love him. I just love his poise out there, the way he controls the game, controls the basketball,” Anthony said. “He can push the pace. He can slow it down. I think you guys would love him too the more that you see him play.”"

Jennings has high expectations set for himself. When Phil Jackson brought the former No.10 overall pick aboard, Jackson expects him to go after the Sixth Man of the Year award.

“He said he expects me to be sixth man of the year,” Jennings said to Ian Begley of ESPN. “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 is playing in his first full season after rupturing his left Achilles tendon in January of 2015. He signed a one-year deal with the Knicks, but he wants to prove that he can still play at a high level. He has the ability to distribute the ball, which is something he will need to bring to the second unit.

While Jennings has spent most of his career as a starter, he has averaged almost six (5.9) assists per contest.

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