New York Knicks: 4 players NYK needs to target this offseason

The New York Knicks should re-sign Reggie Bullock and Nerlens Noel

Much of the New York Knicks’ success this past season can be attributed to Julius Randle and Tom Thibodeau. But without players such as Reggie Bullock and Nerlens Noel, the Knicks aren’t as strong of a team.

Bullock, in his second season with the Knicks, started 64 of the 65 games he played, slotting in as the small forward in between Randle and RJ Barrett. He provided the team with much-needed shooting, projecting as the only 3-point sharpshooter prior to the season. Of course, that wasn’t the case as the season played out. Randle and Barrett proved to be deadly behind the arc.

Nevertheless, Bullock still gave the Knicks a consistent outside threat with the ability to pull up for a midrange jumper following a shot fake from the 3-point line. In 30 minutes per game, he averaged 10.9 points per game on .442/.410/.909 shooting splits.

And if his efficiency as a shooter isn’t enticing enough, his defense is. Bullock was essential to the Knicks’ defensive schemes and at times guarded the best perimeter player. He tallied 2.3 defensive win shares — the same amount of offensive win shares. But this was by far his best season in terms of defensive win shares in his eight-year career.

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In terms of Noel, he also has been a significant piece to the Knicks’ defense. The difference is Noel didn’t enter the season as the starting center. Instead, that role was Mitchell Robinson’s.

But when Robinson suffered injuries, Noel took over and impressed. He became the team’s paint anchor, showcasing his shot-blocking and rim protection. Over 64 games, 41 of which he started, he averaged 2.2 blocks per game which ranked third in the NBA.

Noel didn’t have the offensive impact that Bullock had, but he was a still good lob threat and a target for dump passes.

As good as Noel was, Robinson will be healthy for next season and should return as the starting center. But that shouldn’t stop the Knicks from re-signing Noel. He proved to be too valuable and could become the Knicks’ starting center if Robinson is dealt in a package for an All-Star.

For Bullock, he has a bit more value given he was always the starting small forward. Sure, New York could find another 3-and-D player, but it should be imperative that the Knicks keep their core together to maintain good team chemistry.

The Knicks will have to set aside some cap space to re-sign the two, but it won’t impede New York from pursuing an All-Star caliber player.