As the free agency frenzy has passed, the Knicks emerged with a handful of new pieces that they hope will help change the culture and fortunes of the beleaguered franchise. Whether these moves will pan out is up to the success of Jackson's plan and the teams patience to see it through.
Robin Lopez 4 yrs $54 million - Lopez may not be the post up big man the team needs, but his intangibles and length fill a gaping hole that has been open for quite some time. His game can translate well to the triangle and he'll deliver a spark on the defensive end. Considering the contracts that DeAndre Jordan, Marc Gasol, and Greg Monroe were given, the Knicks may have a essential bargain (if you can believe it).
Arron Afflalo 2 yrs $16 million (2nd year player option) - This was the teams first move of free agency and a surprisingly fast one at that. Afflalo adds his sharp shooting touch and veteran defensive skills that can keep opposing guards as bay. For a team that struggle to get any real consistency from this position all season, he is a more than welcome upgrade.
Derrick Williams, 2 yrs $10 million - Williams brings a will and determination to the court similar to Quincy Acy. The former 2nd overall pick didn't have the most impressive season, but his effort alone made him an attractive candidate to Jackson. Defense is the primary impact he should have on the Knicks and at this juncture, they can use all the help they can get
Kyle O'Quinn (via sign and trade with Orlando) 4 yrs $16 million - This was a good move for New York, adding more depth to the front court. O'Quinn has many tools at his disposal and if used correctly, will be a ball of consistency on both ends. It also helps that he is a native New Yorker and has experience on the big stage going back to his time at Norfolk State where he helped defeat the No. 2 ranked Missouri Tigers in the 2012 NCAA Tournament.
Things won't turn around instantly for the Knicks, but these moves should get on the right track and build hope for better future.
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