The New York Knicks have playoff expectations after acquiring Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah as part of a complete roster revamp this offseason, but we think they won't just be a playoff team - they'll compete with and be one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Here's why the Knicks will contend for the title this season:
4) Wide open East
Outside of the Cavs, the Eastern Conference is wide open. The Raptors are the favorite to get the second seed, but they simply lead a group of 10 teams that could all realistically get a top four seed come playoff time. Atlanta, Charlotte and Miami all got worse in the offseason, while other potential playoff teams in Detroit, Orlando and Washington all didn't get better. New York's stellar offseason has given them as much talent as anyone, so if they can mesh quickly, you could see them grab home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.
3) Better defensively
The Knicks signed Robin Lopez to be their rim protector last season, but he wasn't able to make a tangible difference in terms of the team's overall defense. The addition of Noah - not just as a rim protector and on-ball defender, but as a communicator who gets everyone on the same page - should give them the overall boost they need on the inside. Plus, bringing in Courtney Lee as a perimeter defender will pay dividends this season.
2) Improved bench
Last year, New York's bench was forced to rely on either young, unproven players or veterans who were well past their prime. They've done a small makeover of the unit, signing Brandon Jennings - one of the better backup point guards in the league - and drafting Guillermo Hernangomez, who can play either forward position. The backup wing positions could use an upgrade, so don't be surprised to see them pull off a mid-season trade.
1) Kristaps Porzingis' development
This is going to be the biggest key to New York's resurgence. You know what you're going to get from Carmelo Anthony and a healthy Derrick Rose, but Porzingis ability to become a more consistent offensive threat can take this team to the next level. We know about his rare combination of size, skill and athleticism. Now that he has a full year of experience under his belt, his play should take a big step forward.
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