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New York Knicks: 5 realistic goals for Jeff Hornacek in 2017-18

By Maxwell Ogden

CLEVELAND, OH - FEBRUARY 23: Jeff Hornacek of the New York Knicks signals to his players during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on February 23, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Knicks 119-104. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - FEBRUARY 23: Jeff Hornacek of the New York Knicks signals to his players during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena on February 23, 2017 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Knicks 119-104. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NY – JANUARY 27: Kristaps Porzingis #6 and Carmelo Anthony #7 of the New York Knicks celebrate in the fourth quarter against the Charlotte Hornets at Madison Square Garden on January 27, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – JANUARY 27: Kristaps Porzingis #6 and Carmelo Anthony #7 of the New York Knicks celebrate in the fourth quarter against the Charlotte Hornets at Madison Square Garden on January 27, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

1. Compete For The Playoffs

If the New York Knicks miss the playoffs, it would be easy enough to forgive head coach Jeff Hornacek. Team president Phil Jackson left behind a measure of dysfunction that could be detrimental to team success, and that’s created something of a reason for patience.

True as that may be, the Knicks should at least be a competitive team during the 2017-18 NBA regular season—and thus be relevant in the postseason discussion.

Call it ambitious, but a trio of Carmelo Anthony, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Kristaps Porzingis should lead an effective offense. Coupled with the spacing provided by Courtney Lee, the post presence of Willy Hernangomez, and a decent bench, the Knicks should produce quality numbers.

If Hornacek can convince the players to commit on defense, then the two-way balance should be enough to make New York entertaining—step one.

In a depleted Eastern Conference, the Knicks should have a shot at making the playoffs. The Atlanta Hawks lost Paul Millsap, the Chicago Bulls lost Jimmy Butler, the Indiana Pacers lost Paul George, and few postseason outsiders from 2016-17 made noteworthy improvements.

New York doesn’t necessarily need to make the playoffs, but if Carmelo Anthony is still in town, competing for a spot in the postseason should be the top goal for head coach Jeff Hornacek.

Must Read: Five reasons to love the Jarrett Jack signing

The playoffs and the draft lottery are both alluring prospects. Either way, the 2017-18 NBA season will be about progress for Jeff Hornacek and the New York Knicks.

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