
1. Jeff Hornacek
Prior to becoming the head coach of the New York Knicks, Jeff Hornacek held the same position with the Phoenix Suns. During that time, Hornacek displayed an uncanny ability to get players to play above and beyond their past capabilities.
No player is a better example of that being true than Gerald Green—a player to whom Michael Beasley compares somewhat favorably.
Much like Green, Beasley is a physically imposing player with the build and athleticism to make an impact on the game. Also like Green, he has raw and unrefined scoring abilities that he’s been unable to utilize to create a sustainable career.
The ideal scenario would be for Beasley to take the next step in mirroring Green by experiencing a career rejuvenation under Hornacek’s watch.
Between 2005 and 2013, Green averaged 8.0 points per game on a slash line of .418/.351/.799—in the NBA. He also spent time playing in Russia, China, and the D-League. In two seasons with Hornacek, however, he averaged 14.0 points per game on a slash line of .433/.380/.840.
There’s no possible way to guarantee that Beasley will emulate Green’s success, but if any coach can help him do so, it’s Hornacek.
Must Read: Designing an ideal Carmelo Anthony trade to the Cleveland Cavaliers
This is a low-risk, high-reward type of gamble by a New York Knicks organization that can afford to take one.