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

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ATLANTA, GA – JANUARY 13: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics drives against Tim Hardaway Jr. #10 of the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena on January 13, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

2. Become A Plus Defender

Tim Hardaway Jr. will be the first person to tell you that he’s an underwhelming defender. He struggled mightily on defense during his first run with the New York Knicks and was demoted to the D-League in 2015-16—due in large part to his defensive inconsistency.

Hardaway Jr. made progress on defense during the 2016-17 season, but in 2017-18, the Knicks will need him to become a genuine plus defender.

Hardaway Jr. ranked No. 57 amongst shooting guards in Defensive Real Plus-Minus during the 2016-17 NBA regular season. Moreover, he struggled to keep slashers in front of him and was rather inconsistent in the way he contested shooters.

Hardaway Jr. was better in 2016-17 than in previous seasons, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still significant room for improvement.

Standing at 6’6″ and 205 pounds with a 6’7″ wingspan and above-average athleticism, Hardaway Jr. has the physical measurements to become one of the better defenders at his position. His success on defense comes down to one word: Commitment.

If Hardaway Jr. buys in on defense, the Knicks should improve as a team and his individual accolades should begin to arrive.

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