Let’s be real: the New York Knicks will be a much better team next year. Phil Jackson and his triangle nonsense are officially gone. Kristaps Porzingis will be unleashed in a normal NBA offense. They drafted a young point guard who could be good. They’re one more year closer to the end to Joakim Noah’s outrageous four-year deal (one down, three to go!!!). Even if Melo leaves, a trade could position themselves towards a better future.
The Memphis Grizzlies and the New York Knicks are both teams moving on from past identities to stay relevant in their respective conferences.