Knicks Trade Rumors: Five reasons to keep Carmelo Anthony

2. Jeff Hornacek’s System

When Jeff Hornacek took over as head coach of the New York Knicks, many were excited to see how he’d orchestrate a new-look offense. In 2016-17, however, he struggled to find a delicate balance between his own offense and Phil Jackson’s desired system.

In 2017-18, Hornacek will be able to run his own offense—an opportunity that could yield ideal results with Carmelo Anthony in the fold.

It’s worth noting that Anthony and Hornacek had an, “Expletive-filled,” encounter at halftime of a game against the Brooklyn Nets. Anthony cursing out his coach in front of teammates could be interpreted as unacceptable, and it could also create a burnt bridge.

If Anthony and Hornacek are on the same page, however, their combined offensive brilliance could result in resounding success.

When Hornacek took the job, he expressed how excited he was to have a scorer of Anthony’s caliber. In 2017-18, he could outline exactly what it is that Anthony is expected to do—and subsequently bench him if he goes outside the system on too consistent a basis.

This could both be a golden opportunity for Anthony and a rare chance for Hornacek to establish just how much power he has over the organization.