New York Knicks: Five reasons to sign Mario Hezonja in free agency

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The Orlando Magic’s Mario Hezonja (8) shoots against the Charlotte Magic’s Dwight Howard at the Amway Center in Orlando, Fla., on Friday, April 6, 2018. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel/TNS via Getty Images) /

The New York Knicks drafted a forward, but general manager Scott Perry should still orchestrate a personal reunion by signing Mario Hezonja.

The New York Knicks are entering a period of free agency that isn’t expected to produce results of any long-term significance. General manager Scott Perry would rather preserve cap space than take a chance on a free agent who won’t push the Knicks directly to the next level.

Thankfully, the Knicks will have an opportunity to acquire a potential long-term asset on a cost-efficient deal: Former Orlando Magic forward Mario Hezonja.

Orlando made a surprising decision when it declined the fourth-year option on Hezonja’s contract. It was a statement about the new direction of the franchise, as Orlando could’ve kept Hezonja on the books for a more than affordable cost.

Instead, Hezonja will enter unrestricted free agency in 2018—a truth that should appeal to Perry, who was in Orlando when the Croatian swingman was drafted.

Hezonja may not be the biggest name on the open market, but he’s an intriguing talent for the Knicks to consider. There are certainly drawbacks, including his lackluster production, but there are also reasons for optimism.

The question is: Why should the New York Knicks overlook the negatives and make an effort to sign former Orlando Magic forward Mario Hezonja?