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New York Knicks: The Type Of Players Phil Jackson Should Target

By Maxwell Ogden

Nov 9, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks general manager Phil Jackson watches during the third quarter between the New York Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 9, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks general manager Phil Jackson watches during the third quarter between the New York Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 25, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) and center Willy Hernangomez (14) defend against Dallas Mavericks forward Harrison Barnes (40) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks defeat the Knicks 103-95. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 25, 2017; Dallas, TX, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) and center Willy Hernangomez (14) defend against Dallas Mavericks forward Harrison Barnes (40) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks defeat the Knicks 103-95. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Rim Protectors

If the New York Knicks are going to improve on the defensive end of the floor, then it must do a better job of protecting the paint. As previously alluded to, that will start with the Knicks having a stronger line of resistance along the perimeter.

Behind the perimeter players, however, the Knicks must have big men who can adequately protect the paint and contest shots at the rim.

Kristaps Porzingis is one of the best shot-blockers in the NBA, but he took on a far more prominent defensive role in 2016-17. He’s flexing out to the perimeter on a rather consistent basis, and that will likely continue in this era of stretch big men.

Kyle O’Quinn is a strong shot-blocker, as well, but New York seems to need a backup to Porzingis who can help on the defensive end of the floor.

Lance Thomas is a respectable defender, but the Knicks need an athletic big man who can disrupt the pick and roll. Much as Dewayne Dedmon has helped transform the Spurs’ defense with his athleticism, the Knicks need a big man of the same caliber.

Whether the Knicks develop the current players or find new additions via the draft or free agency, the rim protection must improve.

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