
Thabo Sefolosha
Position: Guard/Forward
Age: 33 (5/2/1984)
Experience: 11th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .441/.342/.733
2016-17 Season Averages: 25.7 MPG, 7.2 PPG, 4.4 RPG< 1.7 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.7 3PM
The New York Knicks may be embracing a youth movement, but defense should still be a priority. If a contender opts against signing Thabo Sefolosha, then he could be the ideal veteran to help mentor the younger wings on how to maintain position defensively.
Elite defense remains a prerequisite for team success, and Sefolosha could provide great value on a one-year deal.
Sefolosha’s offensive game is limited, and it’s more than likely that he’d prefer to sign with a contender. New York needs defense to become a priority, however, and Sefolosha is a respected veteran who could set a tone in the locker room.
That alone is reason to be intrigued, especially with Sefolosha’s 2015-16 and 2016-17 teammate, Tim Hardaway Jr., coming to New York.
If the idea is to tank in 2017-18, then adding a player like Sefolosha may be a bad idea. Sefolosha may not be a star, but he has a significant impact on the game and would help stabilize a unit that Jeff Hornacek may rather see experience growing pains.
If sustainability is the goal and tanking isn’t a prerequisite, however, then a move for Sefolosha could help build a strong culture.
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