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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 guard Brandon Jennings (3) dribbles the ball during the third quarter against the Washington Wizards 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 guard Brandon Jennings (3) dribbles the ball during the third quarter against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks won 90-88. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

The Second Unit

With Derrick Rose unavailable in the Knicks’ second preseason game, Brandon Jennings was added to the starting rotation. Jennings brought a bulk of energy to the game, which saw him run the court with pace.

In addition, he was able to make plays for himself, along with setting up others. Along with his strong effort on offense, he was being a pesky defender; most notably turning defense into offense following a steal on Yogi Ferrell.

The most valuable asset he will bring off the bench is his three-point shooting. Jennings was most efficient off catch and shoots, as he shot 41.4 percent off the catch and shoot. It’s already evident how weak the Knicks three-point efficiency was last season.

Not only will Jennings be an important piece off the bench, but he may see some time as a starter, if Derrick Rose is unavailable.

With Rose and Jennings as the primary point guards on the roster, the Knicks could add another guard to the roster, most likely one of the rookies. With one of the three rookies potentially making the final roster, it’s likely the other two start of the season in Westchester.

Lance Thomas will be an important piece off the bench. He’s proven his value on the offensive side of the ball, which will be an asset to the second unit. Last season, Thomas shot 40 percent from three-point range. The second unit will need to step up this season since it’s something the team struggled with last season.

New York ranked 20th in the league in bench point per game (33.7).

Even though he did have knee issues, Thomas showed that he can be a tough defender.

From a returning player to a rookie; a rookie that could be an under-the-radar player next season.

Willy Hernangomez will provide a spark off the bench in his rookie season. He will be going through the ups and downs during his rookie season, but the Knicks will utilize Hernangomez’s offensive skills.

He’s a back-to-the-basket big who can score in the post and rebound the ball. The 6’10” center has the ability to score with off-hand as well, which makes his offensive game so strong. Along with that, his skill as a passing big will be an asset to the team.

The 2015 second-round pick struggled on defense in the Euroleague, especially not being a good pick-and-roll defender. Playing with Noah, Hernangomez will have a chance to learn from a former Defensive Player of the Year.

The talent is evident. It’s only a matter of time until this team gets in a grove and starts producing wins.

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