Derek Fisher optimistic about Andrea Bargnani

Oct 8, 2014; Hartford, CT, USA; New York Knicks center Andrea Bargnani (77) drives the ball against Boston Celtics center Kelly Olynyk (41) in the first half at XL Center. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2014; Hartford, CT, USA; New York Knicks center Andrea Bargnani (77) drives the ball against Boston Celtics center Kelly Olynyk (41) in the first half at XL Center. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Although the Knicks didn’t have much to smile about after thier preseason opener , new coach Derek Fisher found a silver lining in Andrea Bargnani.

Fisher told reporters that he believes that Andrea Bargnani will be a matchup problem for the opposition.

More from NBA

Fisher thinks so highly of Bargnani due to the big man’s versatility and gifted ability to shoot the basketball. Fisher also believes that Bargnani is comfortable in the new triangle offense. Bargnani’s ability to shoot the ball can make him fit in well with the triangle offense. The one area that may deprive the Knicks success next season is Bargnani’s lack of success on the defensive side of the ball.

Throughout his career, Bargnani has struggled on the defensive side of the ball and the Knicks will need that to change if they want to achieve maximum potential next season. He played relatively well last season when healthy. If Bargnani stays healthy and works on his defense, he can play a big role on the Knicks team next season.

Bargnani said that the main focus for him is staying healthy and helping his team win basketball games. Bargnani has only played in 44% of his teams games over the past 3 seasons and if he wants to get a contract offer of his delight in the offseason, he will need to participate in more games. The Knicks may struggle early on in the season trying to learn the new triangle offense, so patience will be a key aspect to what the Knicks will do this season.

More from FanSided

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations