New York Knicks Should Re-Sign Derrick Williams

Jan 20, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Derrick Williams (23) after making a three-point shot against the Utah Jazz during the overtime of an NBA basketball game at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks defeated the Jazz 118-111 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

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March 11, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Derrick Williams (23) moves the ball up court against Los Angeles Clippers during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

What’s His Value?

It’s quite likely that Derrick Williams will opt out of his current contract. It wouldn’t be a sign of his desire to leave, but instead a financially rational decision to pursue a contract with more security.

The question is, how much is Williams worth to the New York Knicks in both the short and long-term?

Williams’ player option was worth $4,598,000, which is a solid starting point for contract negotiations. For perspective, $4.6 million under a $72 million salary cap translates to roughly $6.5 million under a $94 million salary cap.

Thus, a three-year contract worth roughly $20 million would be an appropriate starting point for negotiations.

The salary cap will be $94 million in 2016-17, and will be upwards of $110 million in 2017-18. In other words, a contract worth somewhere between $6.5 million and $10 million per season would be affordable.

Both on the court and on the books, the Knicks would benefit from keeping Williams on the roster.

must read: The pros and cons of pursuing Derrick Rose

For Williams, it’d be just as wise to remain in New York.

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