There’s no doubt the 2018 season for the New York Knicks will be filled with growing pains and young talent trying to break into the starting lineup. Mario Hezonja is one of those players, as he will come to New York trying to furthur prove his abilities to the league. His skills are only contained by his own mental blocks, as he can shoot, defend, and extend the court with his passing.
The Knicks signed the former Orlando Magic star, as they declined his fourth-year option. Hezonja was the fifth overall pick in the 2015 NBA draft. He signed a one-year, $6.5 million deal with the Knicks, making him a bargain.
Bringing on a 23 year-old natural forward will contribute to the Knicks’ youth agenda. Being that it’s only a one-year deal, it will give Hezonja an idea of the future of the franchise and if he wants to be a part of it.
Why did Hezonja sign with the Knicks?
The prized forward received offers from several big-market teams, but chose to take his talents to New York for one reason. He loves coach Fizdale. The Knicks’ new coach brings a new mentality to the Garden – one of progress and development. He beings hard-nosed, aggressive approach to the team; something they have craved for years.
Fizdale’s most underrated trait is his ability to connect with the modern day players, which gave the Knicks a leg up when they knocked on Hezonja’s door.
One of Hezonja’s weaknesses is his struggles on defense. He has the length and physical characteristics to improve, but he exerts massive amounts of energy on scoring which takes away from his defensive skills. When comparing 2016 to 2017, Hezonja cut his three point defense from 43.7% to 35.7%. Even playing average defense would make him a star on a young New York team. We all know when Carmelo Anthony brought to New York – good offense and no defense. Hopefully, the Knicks’ new signing can change the narrative attached to his name.