D.J. Augustin, Unrestricted Free Agent
Age: 28 (11/10/1987)
Slash Line: .423/.405/.805
Season Averages: 19.0 MPG, 7.5 PPG, 3.2 APG, 1.5 RPG, 1.1 3PM
Signing free agent point guard D.J. Augustin should be one of the New York Knicks’ top objectives in 2016. He’ll be available for a very affordable cost, and has proven time and time again that he’s capable of thriving when given consistent minutes.
The Knicks desperately need a backup point guard, and Augustin is tailor made for Jeff Hornacek’s system.
Augustin is a lightning-quick guard who can create penetration when attacking a closeout. He’s also an excellent 3-point shooter with a career percentage of 37.4 from beyond the arc.
Two of the fundamental aspects of coach Hornacek’s offense are 3-point shooting and attacking closeouts. Again, Augustin was tailor made for Hornacek’s offense.
Augustin shot 40.5 percent from beyond the arc in 2015-16, including a mark of 41.1 percent during 28 games with the Denver Nuggets. In Denver, he averaged 11.6 points and 4.7 assists in 23.5 minutes.
There are a number of intriguing options for the Knicks in free agency, but Augustin may be the best bet to come in as a reserve who spots starts when Derrick Rose rests.
Next: The Injury Risk