New York Knicks president Phil Jackson believes second-year guard Tim Hardaway Jr. is poised to make the jump to the next level "sooner rather than later." While Jackson thinks Hardaway can be an excellent player in the league, he said Hardaway must first improve in several important areas.
One bright spot for the Knicks last season was Hardaway, who averaged 10.2 points coming off the bench as a rookie. Hardaway showed he can shoot the ball, but Jackson made it clear the 2-guard must get better in a couple areas before he'll make the jump to an excellent player.
"In most colleges, defense is not really emphasized and the idea is for your player to outscore his opponent. That's why playing defense in the NBA is such a challenge for a young player like Tim Hardaway Jr.," Jackson said Wednesday, via ESPN. "He has the aptitude and the desire to be aggressive on defense, and during his rookie season he's gained a certain familiarity with the guys he has to guard, so we expect marked improvement from him in this area.
"Tim's shooting touch has never been questioned, but he has a tendency to stand around and wait for somebody to kick him the ball so he can launch 3-pointers. Tim also has trouble finishing with his left hand. Like Shane (Larkin), Tim's summer-league experience gives him a head start on learning the offense, which is a significant advantage. Also, Tim is two inches taller than his listed 6-6, which also enables him to play some small forward.
"I expect that with his talents and his work ethic, sooner rather than later Tim will become an excellent all-around player in this league."
New York is loaded in the backcourt, especially at the 2-guard position. He'll be competing for playing time, but his 42.8 field goal percentage should increase in the triangle offense this year, given he'll have better shot opportunities because of the ball movement. The good news for Hardaway is he has a team-friendly contract and enough upside to give him time to develop in Jackson's offense - while the Knicks have a crowded backcourt, he's the least likely guard to be traded.
