The New York Knicks are hoping to rebound from last season's disappointing 17-65 record, which was the worst mark in the Eastern Conference. What should we expect from the the Knicks this year? Here's our full Knicks season preview:
Projected Starting Lineup
PG: Jose Calderon
SG: Arron Afflalo
SF: Carmelo Anthony
PF: Kristaps Porzingis
C: Robin Lopez
Sponsored
Check out signed Knicks memorabilia by Steiner Sports
Storylines
Are the Knicks taking steps forward?
The additions of pieces such as former Blazers big man Robin Lopez and swingman Arron Afflalo may not qualify as sexy per se, but the long-term gambit that Phil Jackson and the front office has thrown down is reason enough for major optimism for those used to the James Dolan "throw darts wearing a blindfold" method. Both players are reliable NBA starters that make any team better, and should greatly improve New York's defense, which ranked among the worst in the league last year. The Knicks didn't make the big splash a lot of fans were hoping they would, but they did make strides towards becoming a better team.
The return of Carmelo Anthony
The Knicks will obviously be better next season with the return of their best player, but Carmelo will also give New York and the experience and scoring they so desperately lacked last year. Anthony has received more than his share of criticism and blame for the Knicks downfall, but the bottom line is that they'll be terrible again without him. While he may not be a superstar anymore, he's still one of the best offensive players in the league and can carry New York on that end of the floor while their young players develop.
What can rookies Kristaps Porzingis and Jerian Grant contribute?
Those young rookies, Kristaps Porzingis and Jerian Grant, both have the potential to be superstars in this league, and this year will be our first chance to see exactly what they will bring to the table. New York won't compete for a title this year, but the production of these two guys will give fans a ton of hope for the future - or more reasons to be pessimistic.
Projected Statistical Leaders
Points: Carmelo Anthony
Rebounds: Kristaps Porzingis
Assists: Jose Calderon
Steals: Arron Afflalo
Blocks: Robin Lopez
What They're Saying
Kristaps Porzingis Pacing Himself on Road to Stardom
Five things to watch for the New York Knicks
Carmelo has staying power with Knicks, unlike Phil
Projection: 9th in East - 36-46
While the Knicks are hoping to make the playoffs, more than doubling their win total from last year would be considered a major success in New York. I don't think they have the overall talent top to bottom to compete with the improved teams in the East (Pacers, Heat, Bucks), which will ultimately leave them on the outside looking in when the postseason rolls around.
Back to the New York Knicks Newsfeed