ORLANDO — The Knicks brought in Derrick Williams for his offense, for his ability to provide a spark and change the pace with his athleticism. They paid him more than any other reserve on the roster, handing out a two-year, $10 million contract that Phil Jackson justified by saying Williams just needed a chance.
Yet on Wednesday night in Orlando — as a second straight defeat unfolded on the shoulders of an anemic bench — Williams never stepped onto the court. And before this first DNP, Williams’ minutes had been slashed from the 16 he averaged through the first seven games of the season.