The New York Knicks did not have the offseason they planned on after putting up one of the worst seasons in franchise history. Carmelo Anthony might be back on the court, but outside of him are a lot of question marks. Phil Jackson has done his best to remain optimistic about the roster being put in place for New York, but even the team president admits that the Knicks might not be great in the short-term outlook.
Jackson is thinking about the future and not necessarily the start of the season. The team president believes there is going to be a bit of an adjustment period after New York added so many new pieces to the court. Arron Afflalo, Derrick Williams, Kristaps Porzingis and Robin Lopez all come into the Big Apple aiming to try and make an impact and Jackson has a lot of doubt that will happen early on.
"We have a number of new players, so they may struggle early as they learn how to play with each other," Jackson said, via ESPN Charlie Rosen. "Where we end up as the season progresses is an unknown, but we have improved our roster and have a chance to be a good team."
Jackson has heard the criticism surrounding the players signed by the team. Sasha Vujacic has not been seen for a while despite a 10-day contract from the Clippers last season. Afflalo is also getting questionable looks as many have wondered if the shooting guard was worth the contract. Jackson dispelled that idea saying Afflalo has a lot to offer the team as his chemistry with Anthony could be an x-factor.
"He has a gym in his Las Vegas home and he works out religiously," Jackson said. "Actually, he's such a hard-worker that he holds his teammates accountable if they try to cut corners in any way. I look for Arron to be a leader on this team. He wanted us and we wanted him, so Arron and the Knicks is a very good match."
The Knicks are still being linked to various trades and free agent deals. Jamal Crawford and Ricky Rubio have been tossed around as trade options involving Jose Calderon in a deal. Carlos Boozer remains a free agent target for size depth behind Lopez and Porzingis. The future looks strong for the Knicks. Jackson handed out team-friendly contracts to players like Afflalo and Williams, so while the short-term might not be positive, the Knicks are in a position to improve down the road.
