<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">LAS VEGAS ? After displaying the benefits of the Knicks getting younger and more athletic, Trevor Ariza is looking to come back down to earth. The unheralded pick in last year's second round quickly won over Knicks fans with a knack for the spectacular. He spent a lot of time above the rim in search of highlights. Developing a consistent jumper to go along with an explosive first step is now a priority. "It's getting better," said Ariza, who concentrated on making layups during an uneven rookie campaign and shot 44 percent from the field. "I'm still a little inconsistent from 3-point range." A measure of improvement has been noted from mid-range. Realizing that defenses were backing off a step, the Knicks prescribed a daily regimen that includes 600 shots. Ariza won't be able to head for the basket until the opposition knows there's a price to pay for hanging loose. "That's a big part of my summer," he said. "How do you guard me if you have to question whether I'm going to pull up for a jump shot?" While the Knicks are using a new system that emphasizes ball movement, Ariza hasn't found many opportunities to show off on the perimeter. He's getting 14 points a game here by attacking the rim and getting to the line. "Trevor is just so used to driving the ball and driving the ball and driving the ball," coach Herb Williams said before last night's Reebok Vegas Summer League game at UNLV. "He could get away with that in college because of his athleticism. Before it's all said and done, he'll get his shots up." Ariza's been splitting time between New York and Los Angeles, following a workout routine orchestrated by Knicks player development coach Greg Brittenham all the while. He's in the weight room six days a week and has added 10 pounds of muscle, which is allowing him to absorb contact without hitting the deck. "That says a lot about him as far as wanting to become a better player," Williams said before last night's Reebok Vegas Summer League Game at UNLV. "It shows good work ethic."</div> Source
