From a pure talent perspective, Phil Jackson has made thorough improvements to the New York Knicks’ roster. He’s addressed glaring needs and improved the overall level of talent on the roster.
Despite what appears to be a clear improvement made by the Knicks, multiple media outlets project New York as a non-contender.
ESPN’s Summer Forecast projected the Knicks as a 40-win team in 2016-17. Kevin Pelton of ESPN Insider utilized Real Plus-Minus to determine that the Knicks will finish the 2016-17 season at 35-47.
Sports Illustrated was the harshest of all.