2. Uncover ball movement in the offense
In the New Year’s resolutions for 2018, Maxwell Ogden, formerly of Daily Knicks, said the New York Knicks must “Trust the System.” That was under then-head coach Jeff Hornacek, as his unit was best when it crossed 23 assists and stayed below 15 turnovers.
Passing actually improved as the season continued, and the Knicks finished 13th in assists but 21st in turnovers.
For 2018-19, the results have flipped. The Knicks are 29th in assists and 14th in turnovers, a startling change with a similar roster.
Attribute this to New York not having a player average above 4.0 assists per game along with inconsistency at point guard, which was solved when Mudiay broke through.
However, few players on the Knicks are quality passers. Mudiay probably sits atop the roster. After that, Burke and Ntilikina are the other point guards, but the former plays like a smaller two-guard and the latter has not shown the assertiveness or court vision to handle the passing duties.
A healthy Porzingis has the chance to help this. He can pass out of double-teams, which leaves a player open on the perimeter or use his size to see over everyone and allow for greater court vision. Though it’s difficult to think he’s a 16-spot difference.
This might not be an in-season fix and will take free agency to welcome players that are more adept to ball movement, as well as returning Porzingis. Maybe a new point guard, too, if Mudiay leaves.
For now, though, keeping the ball moving at least offers a different look, can help the Knicks win an extra game or two down the stretch and provide a learning experience for the young players.