National Basketball Association

New York Knicks: Postseason is Number One Goal

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

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The New York Knicks have struggled to win the past few seasons, but the goal heading into this season should be very clear.

After a nice offseason, the New York Knicks look much improved on paper. Phil Jackson has done a good job to assemble a talented roster, and now it’s time to see what they can do. Second-year forward Kristaps Porzingis has made the goal very clear for the team this season.

“Obviously, the No. 1 goal is the playoffs this year,” he said Saturday to Ian Begley at a camp he hosted for children in Westchester, New York. “That’s where my head is at. I can’t be thinking nothing past that. Right now it’s the playoffs.”

One of the concerns that came with the Knicks’ decision to not go into a complete rebuild was the development of Porzingis. Due to his unique size and skill, Porzingis certainly has the potential to become a superstar. He isn’t worried about the offseason acquisitions affecting that development.

“Not really. I know, [with] the team drafting me, they want me to grow and grow into a star, a superstar. So I believe that they’re going to help me grow,” he said to Begley. “And they know the type of guy that I am. When I have difficulties, I will not complain… If we’re winning, that’s all that matters to me. If we’re winning, I’ll be happy. And that can help me grow. Last season helped me grow because we lost, and that’s a lot to take mentally. But as long as we’re winning and I’m playing hard and with intensity — and I have the right mindset — then we’ll be fine.”

The Eastern Conference has certainly improved, but the Knicks shouldn’t have a problem making the playoffs if things go according to plan. Finally, the development of Porzingis is very important, but it can be achieved with success in the regular season.