New York Knicks: The Importance Of Courtney Lee

The New York Knicks are hoping many of their big offseason additions have a resurgence this season. But for Courtney Lee, the Knicks have a different set of expectations in mind for him entirely.

Based on their offseason, the New York Knicks are doubling down on their relevancy.

The bulk of the team’s acquisitions during the summer, ranging from the high profile trade of Derrick Rose to the signings of both Joakim Noah and Brandon Jennings, have brought a level of intrigue that surrounds the team as we enter the start of training camp around the NBA.

Of course, the Knicks are hoping that all three players can back up the curiosity by having bounce-back seasons this year, but only time will tell if that’s truly the case.

While much of the focus lies on their big-name additions, the Knicks’ other significant addition from the offseason might arguably carry the most importance for them this season.

Entering his ninth year in the league, Courtney Lee comes to the seventh stop in his career by joining the Knicks. Despite the numerous changes throughout his NBA journey, Lee’s production on the court has been far more stable.

Lee quickly established himself as an adept shooter upon entering the league, especially from beyond the arc, and has continued to do so in the years since (Lee’s a career 38.4 percent shooter from deep).

More from New York Knicks

Combining that with his ability to primarily operate off the ball (Lee averages a 16.3 percent career usage percentage, per Basketball-Reference.com), Lee’s offensive efficiency has helped make him an effective fit next to high usage players.

With his solid defensive traits and play rounding him out, Lee’s “3-and-D” qualities have helped Lee maintain his place as a player who can naturally plug and play anywhere in the league.

All three of those factors are exactly what drove the Knicks to sign Lee to a four-year, $48 million deal this summer.

Now the Knicks are hoping Lee can continue to deliver the same consistent play he’s delivered all throughout his career within the team’s new-look starting five this season.

Although Lee’s role will very likely stay the same, the weight of his responsibilities look to be far larger than they have for him in his past stops.

On the offensive end, Lee’s shooting ability will be relied on heavily, especially if the Knicks expect any success this season.