The New York Knicks lost their former franchise player, Carmelo Anthony, for a pair of role players recently, and many are already thinking that it could mark the start of their rebuilding process. However, one of their former players still thinks highly of them, and believes that they can make it to the playoffs this coming season.
John Starks made it known, via Jake Brown of SNY.tv, that he sees the current Knicks squad competing for a spot in the postseason, and is also excited to find out how things will unfold for them.
“I see this as a playoff team.,” Starks said. “I thought they were a playoff team last year, but unfortunately things didn't click. Hopefully this year, especially in the East. The East isn't as strong as the West. I think we are in the top eight teams that should be in there.”
“I think we have a solid team, but you never know until you lace them up and get out there on the court. Hopefully guys come back with some renewed energy just knowing they are a much better team than what they showed last year. I'm excited about it.”
The 52-year-old then cited the experience Jeff Hornacek had last year and the solid play of Kristaps Porzingis as things that could work to their advantage. Starks also gave well wishes to Anthony, who will be playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
“I thought we got two pretty good players back in Kanter and McDermott. I just wish him the best. Obviously, we got a lot of work to do as an organization to be able to get this team moving in the right direction. I'm looking forward to this year. I think it's going to be an exciting year.
“Coach Hornacek having a year under his belt in the New York market and a lot of the players. I got a chance to see [Kristaps] Porzingis a little bit over the summer overseas playing in some European games and he looks real good. I'm excited about this year.”
There are a number of teams that have improved their rosters this summer as well, and it will be a tall order for them to be one of the top eight teams in the East. However, if Starks’ comments will hold true, the New York faithful may finally see the Knicks in playoff action once again, which is something they have longed for.
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