New York Knicks: 5 Reasons They Might Be Legit In 2016-17

New York Knicks: 5 Reasons They Might Be Legit

Nov 30, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) celebrates his game-winning shot with forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. The Knicks defeated the Timberwolves 106-104. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 25, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson (13) fight for position with with New York Knicks center Joakim Noah (13) and forward Carmelo Anthony (7) in the first half at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Rebounding

As the league transitions further and further into the small-ball era, rebounding isn’t as closely tied to team success as it once was. After all, the top five teams in rebounds per game have only combined for a 51-53 record.

That being said, controlling the boards certainly doesn’t hurt, and with the Knicks averaging 45.4 rebounds per game, they rank sixth in the NBA — a fairly remarkable feat considering their leading rebounder is Joakim Noah at 7.9 boards per game.

With seven players averaging at least three rebounds per game, the back line of Noah, Kristaps Porzingis and Carmelo Anthony has been holding down the boards. The Knicks also turn missed shots into second chance opportunities, ranking third in both offensive rebounds (11.9 per game) and second chance points (15.4 per game).

Rebounding alone isn’t going to carry the Knicks back to the playoffs, but having to worry about a patented Porzingis put-back dunk is a problem for any opponent of this solid rebounding team.

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