New York Knicks: Deep Sleepers To Consider In Free Agency
![Mar 25, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; Memphis Grizzlies small forward Lance Stephenson (1) shoots the ball against the San Antonio Spurs during the second half at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports Mar 25, 2016; San Antonio, TX, USA; Memphis Grizzlies small forward Lance Stephenson (1) shoots the ball against the San Antonio Spurs during the second half at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/80038514a8e0dceb17d557f3b762edbbf78764dd9043766d27699c368aeb3f7e.jpg)
Lance Stephenson, Unrestricted Free Agent
Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 25 (9/5/1990)
Slash Line: .481/.385/.784
Season Averages: 19.9 MPG, 8.3 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 1.9 APG, 0.6 SPG
Lance Stephenson is one of the most polarizing players in the NBA. While it’s certainly reasonable to shy away from Stephenson for that very reason, it actually makes him a safer and more practical target in free agency.
Stephenson’s market value is low enough that the New York Knicks could sign him to a low-cost, prove-it deal and make out like bandits.
Stephenson’s team option for 2016-17 was $9.4 million, and the Memphis Grizzlies declined it. That could be received in any number of different ways, but it’s most likely a sign that Memphis believes $9.4 million is too much to spend for Stephenson.
Under a $94 million salary cap, the notion of paying Stephenson less than $9 million on a one-year deal is quite appealing.
Stephenson, 25, is New York State’s all-time leading scorer in high school basketball. Thus, it stands to reason that, as he weighs short-term options, he’d be most receptive to playing for a New York team.
For what it’s worth, in 26 games with the Memphis Grizzlies, Stephenson averaged 14.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in 26.6 minutes on a slash line of .474/.355/.815.
That’s good for per 36 averages of 19.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 3.8 assists—dream-like production from a sixth man.
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If anyone can reach Stephenson and help him become the player he’s capable of becoming, it’s Phil Jackson.