A Cavalier attitude on Melo

The Eastern Conference is down a few more stars thanks to the trades of Jimmy Butler, Paul George and Anthony. The Knicks probably won’t be a very good team, but Porzingis has the opportunity to put up big numbers.

“You know, you always set goals for yourself internally. When we talk about next steps and next strides that would be great for him (becoming an All-Star),” coach Jeff Hornacek said. “We want to figure out for him how to give him the best chance to make the All-Star team within the concept of our team.”

Porzingis said he gained about five pounds in the offseason in an attempt to get stronger. He also looks forward to showing off some new moves. “I worked on my post game,” Porzingis said. “I think I played a lot more in the post in (the European championships). It’s not that physical (in that tournament), but I think I improved on that. I’m excited to show that in the games. That’s one thing I want to show.”

LEE GOES FORWARD

With Anthony gone, Hornacek seems open to pairing Tim Hardaway Jr. and Courtney Lee as the starting shooting guard and small forward, respectively. It would be a change for Lee, who played shooting guard last season and for most of his career. Lee understands his role has changed.

“You can’t defeat Father Time,” said Lee, one of only three players on the roster in his 30s. “That happens, especially when you trade a guy such as Melo, who was a big part of what the vision was last year. The only thing we can do is start young. We got a good young core group. It’s going to be my job and everybody else who’s in that 30-club to push these guys.”