The Knicks strolled through the draft like a 2 a.m. covert refrigerator raid. Quiet. A couple minor commitments. No picks. Kept the fridge stocked. Maybe some regrets. Definitely more questions for tomorrow.
Next up on Leon Rose’s calendar is free agency, which officially kicks off Friday at 6 p.m. We’ll break down four important questions about where they stand below:
HOW MUCH CAP SPACE DO THE KNICKS HAVE?
None. But they will have access to the mid level exception, which maxes out at about $12.4 million. Some of their flexibility is tied to the decision of Josh Hart, who has until Thursday to decide whether to opt into his deal next year at a $12.9 million salary.
WHY WOULD JOSH HART OPT IN?
Hart would definitely make more money and if he declines the option and hits free agency. League sources peg his value at about four years, $70-75 million. But there are reasons Hart may choose the other route. If he does accept next year’s $12.9 million option, Hart, 28, is eligible for an extension in August worth up to four years and $80 million. So the Knicks could reach a handshake agreement with Hart – who is repped by CAA, the agency with close ties to the Knicks – to extend his deal. From the Knicks perspective, the move makes sense if they want more financial flexibility through the summer and next season. But giving Hart more money on the backend potentially hamstrings them further down the line.
WHO CAN THE KNICKS SIGN WITH THE MID-LEVEL?
Twelve-and-a-half million ain’t what it used to be. That could probably land a nice wing backup. As constructed, the Knicks don’t have an open rotation spot. But they’re short on shooting – which was apparent in the playoffs – and might also need another power forward if Obi Toppin is traded. Here are some free agents to consider: Seth Curry (Nets), Patrick Beverley (Bulls), Bruce Brown (Nuggets), Donte DiVincenzo (Warriors), Joe Ingles (Bucks), Josh Richardson (Pelicans), Shake Milton (Sixers), Torrey Craig (Suns), Matisse Thybulle (Blazers).
WHAT ABOUT A TRADE?
This is the big question. Team president Leon Rose has been patient while accumulating assets, but there remains a big gap between playoff appearances and title contention. The potential options are all flawed but provide the Knicks a much higher ceiling: Karl-Anthony Towns, Zion Williamson, Dame Lillard, Paul George, Zach LaVine. As the Daily News reported, LaVine’s representation would be against a deal to the Knicks, which is certainly something to contemplate if negotiations ever gain traction.
For a lesser upgrade, OG Anunoby and Tobias Harris could be available. Either way, the Knicks will likely do something before the season starts. They have two players who are hoping for more playing time. Both of them – Obi Toppin and Evan Fournier – are entering contract years.
Their own free agent, Derrick Rose, was removed from the Knicks rotation last season and will test the market. But if he can’t find a rotation spot, I wouldn’t rule out a return to New York. Derrick Rose was regarded as a strong veteran locker room presence and Tom Thibodeau could use a player voice to amplify and interpret his messages.
ANYTHING ELSE LOOMING?
Yeah, Immanuel Quickley. The backup guard becomes extension eligible this summer and he’ll command a hefty contract. If they don’t reach an agreement by October, Quickley immediately becomes a trade candidate as a restricted free agent in 2024.
