Especially with Melo, that cognitive dissonance has got to be tough. Old dog, new tricks. The guy has been supremely successful as a go-to, iso-focused scorer. Even when he's at his best (in international competition), his role is to shoot when the ball gets to him--even if he's not the #1 option. He's just not built for a triangle or motion style of offense. He could work really well in a pick-and-roll with Rose, but that leaves Porzingis as the weak side spot-up shooter. Obviously he's overqualified for that role!
I do like Hornacek as a coach, however. Frankly, I suspect Jackson would be better off leaving the job, considering his insistence on maintaining (even parts of) the triangle and his tendency to cozy up to media and drop bombs every now and again. He's just seeming like a meddler as a front-office guy. Doesn't he have an opt-out after this season? I think it would be best for everyone if he took it, though I know he recently said he didn't want to opt out (whenever it is). And as painful as it would be, I'd also let Rose walk or sign him and do a sign-and-trade. And I'd probably try to deal Melo. I'd rebuilt around Zinger. I know after about three rebuilds in the past five years, Knicks fans don't want to hear that, but it makes sense.![]()
I do like Hornacek as a coach, however. Frankly, I suspect Jackson would be better off leaving the job, considering his insistence on maintaining (even parts of) the triangle and his tendency to cozy up to media and drop bombs every now and again. He's just seeming like a meddler as a front-office guy. Doesn't he have an opt-out after this season? I think it would be best for everyone if he took it, though I know he recently said he didn't want to opt out (whenever it is). And as painful as it would be, I'd also let Rose walk or sign him and do a sign-and-trade. And I'd probably try to deal Melo. I'd rebuilt around Zinger. I know after about three rebuilds in the past five years, Knicks fans don't want to hear that, but it makes sense.