The last two dismal campaigns for the New York Knicks have been treacherous, to say the least. While this coming season's group stands to be a new-look squad, players like Carmelo Anthony and some of the other returning faces will be looking for redemption.
Ironically enough, redemption should be a recurring theme for many players across the board. Much like his new teammates Derrick Rose andJoakim Noah, Brandon Jennings is also looking to prove himself all over again as he continues to regain form following a ruptured Achilles.
Still just 26 years old, Jennings has been a well-known starter throughout much of his career, but has failed to reach star status. Much of that could very well have to do with the fact he hasn't been a part of many winning atmospheres. The guard boasts some impressive individual career highlights, including a 55-point game and a separate 21-assist outing. He can score in bunches and loves the big moment. He'll embrace the Garden crowd with ease. That said, he's generally failed to find consistency. A rather overzealous offensive player, Jennings has struggled (and his team has, too) when he stands tall as a squad's best player.
By the time he returned from injury last season, Jennings was clearly underutilized by both the Pistons and Magic. They didn't trust and/or know if he could handle a more substantial role upon return just yet. This undoubtedly went to hurt his value in free agency because prospective teams didn't know whether or not he'd be able to return to his previous level. Even then, as mentioned, there are deficits in his game that may make a player like him difficult to take a chance on when considering the currently aggressive market.
Alas, Jennings has opted to take the high road with the Knicks. He was he one of the few notable players who ended up taking a pretty sizable pay cut from last season in this new age NBA economy. Plus, with all of the pressure in the word on Rose, a backup role will be a much different one for Jennings to embrace.
Jennings, without a doubt, will be playing with an internal chip on his shoulder. That said, there will be so much more pressure on the likes of Rose, Phil Jackson and Anthony (from those expecting the Knicks to improve) that perhaps the guard's play won't be as heavily criticized.
The current Knicks squad on paper is unquestionably the most talented one Jennings has ever been a part of. Being around such talented and otherwise polarizing figures should make the game come much easier to him. By coming off the bench, the seven-year vet will be able to just do what he does best: score. New York is in desperate need of that offensive spark plug off the bench, which is something Jennings can easily provide. Not starting will mean he won't necessarily be looked to serve as the type of floor general that gets players involved; he can just play his game and let things come naturally.
This situation may be a comfortable one, but the stakes are still rather high. Jennings needs to prove himself as he plays for his next contract. He's looking to make a living and get the biggest cash return on his talent. An upgraded role is on the line as well. Can he regain form and become the player he once was? He'll not only be looking to play for his next contract, but also to maintain a certain reputation as a quality player in this league. There's no doubt that Jennings wants to be a starter in the long term.
But that's good news for the Knicks. In Jennings, they get a tough player who is hungry for redemption. It already seems as though he's willing to do whatever it takes to achieve such satisfaction. For this price, in this convenient role, they stand to benefit immensely, even if it's just for one season. If he wins the Sixth Man of the Year award, he will look smart for taking advantage of an opportunity to regain some notoriety. Furthermore, the Knicks' front office will come off looking rather savvy, too.
Jennings can certainly accomplish all of the above while doing what's asked and contributing to what the Knicks hope will be a winning atmosphere. That will go a long way toward proving he can be trusted in familiar situations as his career continues.
How will a hungry Brandon Jennings benefit the Knicks?
Randle played better during some games thoug and with Rose and Jennings health are question marks he may be necessary 
