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

Willing Passers

In order for the triangle offense to properly function, the New York Knicks will need players of a pass-first mentality. Players who want to score are necessary for any system, but it’s just as important to have players who are willing to make the extra pass.

New York essentially lived in isolation during the 2016-17 regular season, which is something team president Phil Jackson must fix and address.

New York finished the 2016-17 season at No. 19 in assists per game and No. 21 in points via assists per game. That’s especially stunning when one considers how clearly the numbers displayed the Knicks’ need to move the ball.

New York went 26-21 when it recorded at least 21 assists, and 5-30 when it failed to reach that number—as clear an indication as possible.

Despite the obvious signs that ball movement trumped isolation basketball, New York bordered on a refusal to move the ball. It ranked No. 3 in isolation possessions per game and No. 4 in the frequency with which it ran isolation plays.

Defense was a bigger flaw than anything on offense, but the Knicks desperately need players who can move the ball and trust their teammates.