The New York Knicks have taken a new leap into this season, with a stark contrast at the offensive side of the ball from last year's triangle offense instilled by former president Phil Jackson.
The team now runs a smoother pick-and-roll based offense, allowing for star forward Kristaps Porzingis to flourish with the ball in his hands.
“We’re not running the stuff we did last year with the mix of plays,’’ said head coach Jeff Hornacek, whose club is off to a surprising 7-6 start and playing host to Utah on Wednesday, according to Marc Berman of The New York Post. “Our guys are feeling comfortable with what we’re running. We’re going to get better at that.”
“It’s a style most of those guys like to play. It makes it easier for them. Even in this system, there’s a lot of teaching we have to do. We have to continue to learn the little things that will make it easier especially in pressure times like (against the Cavaliers).’’
Tim Hardaway Jr., who was with the team previously during Jackson's reign, noted the difference in philosophy and the excitement it brings to be part of a new culture building up.
“It’s a full 180,’’ Hardaway said. “It’s great. A lot of guys are taking each possession in practice very serious. We’re building our game. We’re building a culture here. When we step in this practice, we are all ears and minds are open. Everyone is giving their input and everyone is locked in on both ends of the floor.”
Soon after the firing of Jackson, the Knicks brass of Steve Mills and Scott Perry gave Hornacek free reign to re-align this offense to its strengths — which has only had positive results for this team, winning seven of their last 10 games.
“I think it was important for us as ballplayers to know that as a team,’’ Hardaway said. “I think as a ball club you have to look at it as your guys want the best of you. And your teammates want the best for the team. It wasn’t people picking and choosing. It was a team, including myself and Courtney. It was great to see everyone go back to the drawing board and practice and having that positive energy and mindset and making sure it doesn’t happen again.”
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