The New York Knicks were one of the most surprising teams in 2021 and far exceeded expectations. Immanuel Quickly was part of history.
Although the Knicks are 6-8 and in ninth place in the Eastern Conference, they are only 0.5 games away from sixth place.
Even more impressive is the fact that the Knicks are in the running for a playoff spot without their rookie phenom Obi Topping.
Star striker Julius Randle played at superstar level, while supporting actors RJ Barrett, Mitchell Robinson and company were solid for Tom Thibodeau.
However, the unexpected contribution of rookie Immanuel Quickley was a major factor in the Knicks’ success.
He quickly established himself as a long range shooter with the potential to break through as the dominant long range player for New York.
It was soon so good that the question arose: Should the Knicks throw the Emmanuel soon?
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of using Quickley in the Knicks’ workout.
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Quickley’s arrival on the team would make the Knicks one of the youngest and most promising teams in the NBA.
Speak quickly and clearly about Barrett and Payton. Barrett and Payton are both game wardens, and Quickley is the main guard. It’s likely that the Knicks will quickly take advantage of unselfish play and make a real impact with more options.
Giving a young man like Quickly a status within the task force can also be a great boost to his confidence. Playing time seems to be the usual obstacle for NBA rookies, but if Quickley can overcome it as a rookie, the sky is the limit for the Kentucky guard.
In the long run, a quick start as a rookie might be best for his development with the Knicks.
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Quickley is a natural leader, but he could be a combo guard for the Knicks. That means either Elfrid Payton or Reggie Bullock will step down.
Given Elfrid Payton’s effectiveness as a playmaker, it’s likely Bullock will be sidelined.
What does that mean for the Knicks? It’s hard to say.
Bullock and Quickley have almost identical scoring percentages and average the same number of points per game for the Knicks.
Bullock, if he shoots a little better, could make a few more mistakes in the game against the Knicks.
The other categories between Quickly and Bullock are similar, with the exception of bounce. Bullock averages three more rebounds per game than Quickley and gives the Knicks a little help bouncing the court.
Having Quickley on the Knicks team allowed for some offensive rebounds and second chance points.
Total
The Knicks have exceeded expectations this season, but it is still unlikely they will make the playoffs.
Looking at the long term situation, it seems that a fast race is the best option for this team. A few bruises and missed shots can be a sacrifice, but it can pay off in the long run.
New York could eventually reform the roster to a single class of recruit. This gives Immanuel Quickly and Obi Toppin a chance to shine, perhaps the only piece of the puzzle left.
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