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New York Knicks: Pending free agents to scout in 2018 NBA Playoffs

By Maxwell Ogden

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 09: Jeff Green #32 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during warm ups before the game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on April 9, 2018 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Lawrie/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 09: Jeff Green #32 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during warm ups before the game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on April 9, 2018 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Lawrie/Getty Images) /
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OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – APRIL 11: Jerami Grant #9 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles the ball during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on April 11, 2018 at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch/NBAE via Getty Images)
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – APRIL 11: Jerami Grant #9 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dribbles the ball during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on April 11, 2018 at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. player. 149. . Hybrid Forward. UFA. Jerami Grant

Age: 24 (3/12/1994)
Experience: Fourth Season
Slash Line: .535/.291/.675
Season Averages: 20.3 MPG, 8.4 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 1,1 ORPG, 1.0 BPG

The New York Knicks have made it no secret that one of the top tasks on the agenda is adding athleticism and length to the perimeter. The working theory is that the Knicks will draft a small forward, but even if that transpires, depth is crucial.

Thankfully for the Knicks, there’s a pending free agent who can play multiple positions and defend at a high level: Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jerami Grant.

Grant is a 24-year-old hybrid forward who can play the 3 or the 4 on a consistent basis. He has the length that the Knicks are looking for with a 6’9″ frame and a near 7’3″ wingspan, as well as the athleticism to hold his own against just about any wing.

With a combination of Frank Ntilikina, Grant, and Kristaps Porzingis, the Knicks would have three versatile defenders who could anchor the system.

I admit that Grant has underachieved a bit, but he’s still a young and moldable talent who should be available for an affordable cost. His versatility is an intriguing selling point and the cost of doing business shouldn’t break the bank.

If the Knicks can sign Grant for a reasonable price, then adding him to the young core would mean bringing in a in a player who can bridge the gap on defense.

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