Arron Afflalo sees Knicks pushing pace with Jeff Hornacek
New York Knicks coach Jeff Hornacek reacts against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half of an NBA game at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016. Credit: Kathleen Malone-Van Dyke
Is the triangle offense that integral to the Knicks’ current offensive philosophy?
Not really, according to Sacramento Kings shooting guard Arron Afflalo. He knows something about the triangle, having spent one drama-filled season with the Knicks in 2015-16. He averaged 13 points per game and shot 38 percent from the field.
The Knicks struggled as a team and saw coach Derek Fisher replaced by interim coach Kurt Rambis last season. Afflalo noted that the Knicks now seem to be getting better under Jeff Hornacek.
“I’m pretty sure Jeff has his guys just pushing the pace probably on some initial offense,” Afflalo said. “I’m pretty sure [Knicks team president] Phil Jackson’s got some triangle principles he’s still trying to stick with, but in today’s game, some early offense, some fast pace has obviously proven to be successful. So I’m pretty sure they’re trying to find a nice blend of both.”
Although his stay in New York was brief, he said it’s something he will always remember. “It was a great experience,” Afflalo said. “Playing for the Knicks is one of those things that whether it was good, bad or indifferent. It’s something to be proud of. It’s really a historic franchise . . . Had some good times, had some bad times. Quick one-year run, but it’s something I’ll always remember.”
Fast breaks
Kings coach Dave Joerger coached Mindaugas Kuzminskas seven years ago in Europe and is a big fan of his game. “He has an energy to him [that] is a little Kirilenko-ish,” Joerger said, referring to former NBA player Andrei Kirilenko. “He’s like a big cutter, offensive rebounder and runs the floor.” . . . Courtney Lee (ankle) sat out. Justin Holiday started in his place.
Barbara Barker is an award-winning columnist and features writer in the sports department at Newsday. She has covered sports in New York for more than 20 years.
