How do you improve on an unpleasant 17-win season? Go after a star? That would be an ideal way to do it, but in the New York Knicks’ case, they were unable to lure a big-name free agent, just like the Los Angeles Lakers.

However, the Knicks went with a different approach and snagged quite a few quality pieces that would definitely help them increase their win total from last season.

Before getting into their free agency moves, let’s begin with the 2015 NBA draft where the Knicks owned the fourth overall pick and shockingly selected Kristaps Porzingis.

Boos echoed the Barclays Center as Porzingis’ name was called upon by the commissioner. New Yorkers were disappointed with the pick, but Porzingis ignored the discouragement.

With a chip on his shoulder and something to prove, Porzingis entered the Summer League with determination and focus. The Latvian averaged 10.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks on 48 percent shooting from the field. He showed a great passing ability for his size, high basketball IQ, efficient scoring, and surprised everyone on the defensive end.

The only concern Porzingis may have is his overall strength in the low block. He needs to put on some weight and the seven-footer is highly aware of that, as he is taking the time working to add bulk. With a fascinating Summer League, the 20-year old may not be a bust after all, but Porzingis will now have to prove himself during the regular season when the level of competition rises.

Also during the draft, the Knicks traded Tim Hardaway Jr. for Jerian Grant, fulfilling their backup point guard spot. Grant had an amazing Summer League as well, averaging 11.8 points, 4.8 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per outing. For a point guard, the 22-year old possesses great size and athleticism. He also has good lateral speed and strength. Grant can serve as a nice backup to Jose Calderon in the Knicks’ rotation, giving Derek Fisher quality 15 to 20 minutes a game.

As free agency kicked off, the Knicks were aggressively pursuing the top dogs. DeAndre Jordan and Greg Monroe were atop their list of desired free agents, but New York was unable to entice either one. Once those two became unattainable, they quickly moved on and signed some wonderful complimentary pieces. 

The Knicks started off by quickly replacing Hardaway Jr. with defensive ace Arron Afflalo. The 6-foot-5 two guard will make for a terrific fit playing alongside Carmelo Anthony. Not only is he a fantastic perimeter defender, but he is a respectable outside shooter. Afflalo doesn’t need the ball in his hands to be effective. He is simply a spot up shooter who will space the floor for Anthony and hit open threes when the opportunity is there.

To further strengthen their roster, New York added Afflalo’s Portland Trail Blazers teammate Robin Lopez. Throughout his career, Lopez hasn’t been much of an offensive threat, but he provides excellent size in the paint and is a satisfactory rim protector. Aside from that fact, the seven-footer out of Stanford is also an efficient free-throw shooter. Lopez is not the biggest catch of the offseason, but he is a quality big man who will bolster New York’s frontcourt.

The Knicks did not end there, as they added another piece to their frontcourt in Derrick Williams. Although his career has been a rather disappointment, Williams will get a fresh start with a big market team and the chance to showcase himself in the most popular arena in the world, the Madison Square Garden. Williams’ athletic ability is his best feature, but he will need to work on his efficiency and intangibles. However, earning heavy minutes may be an issue for Williams once again.

A very underrated move made by the Knicks was the signing of Kyle O’Quinn. It was pretty much a trade off with the Orlando Magic since they took New York’s free agent Jason Smith. At 6-foot-10, 250 pounds, O’Quinn is a hefty power forward who clogs up the painted area on defense and plays physical basketball.

To further shore up their bench depth, New York also re-signed Lance Thomas and Lou Amundson. Thomas came on as a fine mid-season acquisition for the Knicks, showcasing his ability to score. Meanwhile, Amundson demonstrated his hustle and energy on a nightly basis, earning heavy minutes mainly due to injuries. He averaged six points and six rebounds per contest in 41 games.

Most recently, New York also signed Sasha Vujacic and Kevin Seraphin. It’s nice to see Vujacic make his return to the NBA after spending years playing overseas. He is mostly known for his outside shooting, earning the nickname ‘The Machine’ when he was a part of the Lakers. The Slovenian will be reunited with his former teammate Derek Fisher and former head coach Phil Jackson. The Knicks hope Vujacic could supply energy and peskiness on the defensive end and much-needed three-point shooting offensively.

Seraphin, on the other hand, puts the finishing touches to New York’s frontcourt. He is an adequate backup big man who has the ability to play in the post and offers physicality and toughness.

The Knicks also signed Thanasis Antetokounmpo to a partially guaranteed deal. The brother of Giannis will get another opportunity to make New York’s roster and will have the chance to prove himself during training camp and preseason. If Antetokounmpo doesn't work out, he will likely play in the D-League to further develop his game.

The New York Knicks did not score any big-name free agents this summer, but they still managed to upgrade their roster and will look to bounce back from last year’s dreadful, franchise-worst season. However, a postseason appearance doesn’t seem to be in reach just yet for the Knickerbockers, but this offseason went smoother than expected.

Off-Season Grade: B