New York Knicks: 5 Burning Questions Following The Preseason

Oct 4, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (25) dribbles the ball during a game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (25) dribbles the ball during a game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 10, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks head coach Jeff Hornacek (L) speaks to his players on the bench during the second quarter against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 10, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks head coach Jeff Hornacek (L) speaks to his players on the bench during the second quarter against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Can Jeff Hornacek Stabilize The Defense?

The New York Knicks was forced to work with an incomplete roster in every one of the six preseason games it played. That further illustrates the impressive nature of the 4-2 record, but it doesn’t mask the fact that New York’s defense was atrocious on more than one occasion.

The question is: can head coach Jeff Hornacek stabilize the Knicks’ defense in time for New York to avoid developing bad habits early in 2016-17?

New York’s defense suffered in three games without Joakim Noah, which is an understandable development given his role with the team. He’s not just a rim protector or conventional defensive anchor; he’s the vocal leader of the defense.

It may take time before his impact is felt on the defensive end, but it’s clear that New York hasn’t yet found its collective rhythm.

The Knicks have the personnel to be one of the better offensive teams in the NBA. The goal in New York is to emphasize defensive execution, however, which would thus alleviate pressure from the offense and create a more sustainable form of success.

The question is: can Hornacek stabilize the defense before Tuesday, October 25? Or will the issues with the defense extend into the regular season?

Hornacek and the New York Knicks need to find a cure to their defensive woes before this burning question consumes their season.