National Basketball Association

New York Knicks Have A Tremendous Starting Lineup

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

foxsports

Adding on to the great foundation of Carmelo Anthony and Kristaps Porzingis, New York Knicks team president Phil Jackson was able to create a much better starting lineup than NYK had last year.

Regardless of what the critics have to say about it, the starting lineup of the 2016-17 New York Knicks can match up with any team in the NBA.

Despite the disrespect given to the New York Knicks by the media, which includes team president Phil Jackson being given a ‘D’ for free agency, this team is significantly better than the squad that Knicks fans were given last year.

Last year, the Knicks’ backcourt played horrible defense and were inconsistent as shooters. It also struggled to create penetration with any consistency.

New York’s backcourt is now infinitely better than the 2015-16 combination of guards. Led by Derrick Rose and Courtney Lee, the Knicks should be able to stop opponents from getting into the paint at a much higher rate.

As much as many fans, including myself, loved watching Robin Lopez, Joakim Noah is an upgrade. Noah adds a unique physicality and tenacity. Noah is also a much better passer than the former Knick.

These three players were acquired to complement Carmelo Anthony and Kristaps Porzingis. This team’s starting lineup could border on being unstoppable if healthy.

Anthony, Noah, and Rose are all former multi-time All-Stars. Porzingis made the 2016 All-Rookie First Team and is expected to become an All-Star.

Not many other NBA teams have a lineup like that. Aside from the San Antonio Spurs, Golden State Warriors, and Cleveland Cavaliers, few come to mind.

The Knicks should defeat the lackluster teams and win a strong percentage of games against playoff teams. New York should even compete with the elites.

Although the bench may be shaky, the Knicks’ starting lineup can compete with any team in the league.