This past Vegas Summer League there was one ex-NBA player who believes the New York Knicks can make the playoffs. Kendrick Perkins was asked about the Knicks upcoming season in a quick interview.
Perkins stated, “I don’t think they’re at the bottom like people think they are.” He continued, “I wouldn’t be surprised if the Knicks make the playoffs.”
Perkins complimented coach David Fizdale’s championship coaching background in Miami. As well as the moves that general manager Scott Perry made, both in the free agency and the draft. He ended with the Knicks having some good young pieces and they will be “alright.”
The Knicks did have a good off-season, despite what people may think. They did not add the best pieces, but they added the right pieces. Perry tried to find players that would fit the system that Fizdale wants to run. However, it is up-in-the-air with what system Fizdale wants to run this year.
Julius Randle, Marcus Morrs, Bobby Portis, Elfrid Payton, Taj Gibson and Wayne Ellington were the Knicks off-season additions. We can’t forget to mention the 3rd overall pick, RJ Barrett, who has the mindset and ability to be the face of the franchise down the line.
Last season was more offensive heavy. A lot of screens and pick-and-rolls. The Knicks were able to score, sort-of, but it was the defense that was the issue.
The defensive presence was lacking and, at sometimes, non-existent. If the Knicks want any shot at making the playoffs, the defense needs to be improved. Similar to what Walt ‘Clyde’ Frazier said, “Defense is everything to me.” Mitchell Robinson, Morris, Randle and Frank Ntilikina will be the guys on defense to propel the team.
Not many are selecting the Knicks to make the playoffs next season. Many fans believe the Knicks can be a 30-35 win team, which will be a major improvement from a 17-win season last year. Even if the Knicks don’t make the playoffs, taking a step forward in all areas of the game will make next season a ‘win’ regardless.