New York Knicks: Allonzo Trier to return in 2019 with more offensive prowess

New York Knicks, Allonzo Trier
Jul 5, 2019; Las Vegas, NV, USA; New York Knicks forward Kevin Knox (20) and guard Allonzo Trier (14) against the New Orleans Pelicans during an NBA Summer League game at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Hitting on .394 of his three-point attempts in his rookie season proved that New York Knicks shooting guard Allon Trier was capable of making an impact on the floor.

The Knicks youth have all been working diligently on improving their game in different facets. Dennis Smith Jr. with his perimeter shot, Mitchell Robinson on a three-point shot, and not Trier trying to further refine his threes as well.

The Athletic’s Mike Vorkunov detailed how players like Kevin Knox and Robinson are preparing for their second season at the NBA level.

Trier, the player of focus, will have plenty of competition this year in his quest to find playing time. Improving his jumper and three-ball are two essential tools he must have access to. Allonzo spoke to the Atheltic about his progression:

“It’s something Coach talked to me about,” he told The Athletic. “‘You shoot it so good.’ And the front office talked to me about I need to shoot more 3s off the catch, as soon as I can get it let it fly. They said you have such a beautiful stroke and shoot such a high percentage that you have to get more off so you can get — according to analytics, the more I get off and I shoot at a high percentage then it’ll be good for us. Not only myself but as a basketball team, so that’s one thing I’ve been focused on doing.”

Trier put up a solid stat line of 10.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game in 64 outings. He had great moments in his rookie season but also struggles as his defense lacked at times and his selfish style of play saw the offense sputter when he was cold.

What will Trier’s developed three-ball do for the New York Knicks?

Theoretically, improving his scoring ability will allow the offense to be more efficient for longer stretches throughout any given game. Momentum is a very important factor in basketball and Trier adding a consistent three-pointer to his game will give the Knicks that added leverage.

Despite a spat with Tim Hardaway Jr. and a lack of production at times, he still managed to secure a two-year, $6 million deal. Coming off the bench will likely be his best bet in the coming season, but if he can produce there’s more playing time to be had from the 6-foot-5 guard.