What I'm saying is that IMO straight out of camp neither NDour nor Kuz will have the opportunity to push Thomas out of the rotation even if they severely outplay him. Thomas has already demonstrated his defensive versatility at the NBA level guarding 1's, 2's, 3's and some 4's, and he showed that he could hit the open shot consistently (3's too). He played intelligent team basketball within the system and within himself, and all of these traits earned him the respect of the organization. Evidenced by his recent 4-year deal. Even if he absolutely sucks throughout training camp, there is 0% chance he is bumped from the rotation coming into the reg. season. Remember last year early on when he looked awful and he still got minutes and we all were puzzled about it? Wound up having a good season. The Knicks, including Hornacek (if we're presuming he has input into the signings), must certainly view him as a valuable bench player which is why I feel confident predicting this.
I do think that NDour will be a rotation player and I assume the Knicks expect this. Like Lance he can guard different positions and brings the motor, hops and desire to constantly pursue the ball that Phil Jackson has been championing since he arrived in NY.
I believe that Kuz has a real possibility to be a rotation player this year though I think that the Knicks aren't counting on it, but think there is a decent chance. Would be a disappointment if he was just a bench warmer/spot minutes guy due to some inability to get a comfort level vs NBA competition. Will likely need to put on some weight and be prepared to get knocked around some but still be effective.
Perhaps the Knicks are looking to see which of NDour and Kuz can replace Derrick Williams's role off the bench as athletic ball hound and finisher. Who knows, maybe even more efficient or consistent than DW?
O'Quinn could be in danger of being left out of the rotation if he doesn't demonstrate a next-level type of hunger and commitment this season. There were flashes last year and moments that recalled a better-passing and a moderately more skilled Charles Oakley, but then occasions when he was basically out to lunch mentally and made ugly, costly plays on offense and defense. Not reliable in his approach but promising with skills as he is a good passer and can rebound and defend when focused. He will need to show more consistency to become important as a player on this team. In the meantime the Knicks will certainly be ready to move his reasonable salary for any piece or asset they deem sufficiently valuable.
7/13/2016 3:26 PM