The New York Knicks have some big decisions to make this upcoming season. The starting lineup could have a number of different looks. The Knicks could go with a more defensive front or offensive minded. It all depends on what David Fizdale thinks will work best for this young team.
One of the big questions is who should be the starter between Marcus Morris and Kevin Knox?
Kevin Knox
Knox averaged 12.7 points with .370 field goal percentage and 3.7 rebounds in 28.8 minutes per in his rookie campaign. He struggled mightily throughout the year, showing glimpses of raw talent, but then carelessness as well.
Knox shooting from the field was a big cause for concern. He was only 19-years-old, but his shot was not consistent and took to many bad contested shots. Knox also lacked aggressiveness while defended unless the lane was wide open. Even his mother called him out for not being aggressive.
Knox did become more confident towards the end of the season and his shot slightly improved. He has been working on his shot this summer, similar to Dennis Smith Jr. But, he will need to take a big step forward on both sides of the floor to cement a starting spot.
Marcus Morris
Last season in Boston, Morris averaged 13.9 points with a .447 field percentage, 5.1 rebounds in 27.9 minuter per. His rebounds having gone up each year throughout his career, with last year being his career high for a season.
Morris brings a aggressive, gritty, no nonsense attitude towards the game. He is a player that you dislike when your team is playing against, but then love when he is apart of your team. Morris would fit perfectly with 90s Knicks.
Yes, Morris, 30, is getting older, but the hard-head style of play is still there. He is not afraid to bang down-low for rebounds and fight for his teammates.
So, who should start? As it looks now, Morris should get the starting nod over Knox. However, both might not start depending on what Fizdale wants to play. Morris is the gritty veteran and he can teach Knox a thing or two. Knox would benefit greatly sitting behind Morris and learning from him.
Like his mother even said, Kevin needs to be aggressive. If anyone on the Knicks can teach Knox how to be aggressive it is Marcus Morris. Morris starting over Knox will bring a more defensive presence to the starting lineup, while also adding solid offensive capabilities.