New York Knicks: 5 realistic goals for Tim Hardaway Jr. in 2017-18

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ATLANTA, GA – MARCH 3: Tim Hardaway Jr. #10 of the Atlanta Hawks shoots a lay up during the game against LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 3, 2017 at Philips Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images) /

3. Consistency On The Drive

Tim Hardaway Jr. has a streaky jump shot, but it’s strong enough for him to consistently put points on the board. In order to evolve from a quality shooter into a high-caliber all-around scorer, however, he must convert with efficiency on the drive.

Hardaway Jr. has made some measure of progress when attacking the rim, but he’ll need to become significantly more efficient as the only potential slasher on the roster.

Thankfully, Hardaway Jr. has committed himself and his resources to improving his effectiveness on the drive. While Hoodie Melo may be stealing headlines, Hardaway Jr. has taken to the practice court with another legend: Dwyane Wade.

Wade is not only one of Hardaway Jr.’s friends and supporters, but one of the greatest slashers in NBA history—fair qualifications for mentor status.

It’d be irrational to believe Hardaway Jr. will come back as the type of slasher that Wade has proven to be, but this is a good start. If he displays a stronger sense of confidence on the drive, that alone should pose more of a threat to the defense.

Carmelo Anthony, Courtney Lee, and Frank Ntilikina aren’t exactly known for their proficiency as slashers, which places a somewhat heavy burden on Hardaway Jr.

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