5. New York Knicks
The New York Knicks have already made a big change, bringing in former Bulls and Timberwolves head coach Tom Thibodeau. But Thibodeau alone cannot create the change that Knicks’ fans demand.
The Knicks have a few pieces to build around, namely RJ Barrett and Mitchell Robinson. New York also has young depth in the backcourt in the way of Kevin Knox and Frank Ntilikina.
But Thibodeau is inheriting a team that won just 21 games a season ago, and as of now, he’ll run it back with largely the same roster.
The Knicks have two first round picks this offseason, and they’ll need to utilize them as assets, whether that’s via trades or making the picks.
New York also always makes an effort in free agency, but typically they come up short. The Knicks need to be active in free agency and creative in the draft for Thibodeau and company to make a noticeable leap next season.
