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Knicks Rumors: Enes Kanter has suitors in free agency

By Maxwell Ogden

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JANUARY 12: Enes Kanter #00 of the New York Knicks gets introduced before the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 12, 2018 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - JANUARY 12: Enes Kanter #00 of the New York Knicks gets introduced before the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 12, 2018 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jordan Johnson/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks center Enes Kanter has a player option for the 2018-19 NBA season, but he also has multiple suitors in free agency.

Friday, June 29 will be a date that plays a significant role in the future success experienced by the New York Knicks. Enes Kanter has until that day to make a final decision about his player option, which could determine his future with the franchise.

While Kanter wants to re-sign with the Knicks, it’s worth noting that Scott Perry won’t be the only general manager vying for his services.

Kanter would make upwards of $18.6 million in 2018-19 if he were to opt in to his current contract with the Knicks. If he opts out, however, the potential exists for the 26-year-old to ink a long-term deal with another franchise.

According to Marc Berman of The New York Post, Kanter’s agent informed him that there could be four or five teams who have interest in signing him.

"“But my agent is telling me there could be four, five teams. My thing is, if I can, I’d just want to stay with the Knicks. I played here last year and I loved it, loved the people here. It’s not just about the money. It’s about the whole organization. But that’s the decision I’m going to make the last day.”"

Kanter has repeatedly stated that he’d prefer to stay with the Knicks, but the existence of other options in free agency could be of significance.

Kanter plays a traditional style at the center position, but his production is rivaled by few. In 2017-18, he averaged 14.1 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.9 offensive boards, and 1.5 assists per game on 59.2 percent shooting from the field.

Kanter finished 2017-18 ranked No. 1 in the NBA in offensive rebound percentage, No. 4 in total rebound percentage, No. 5 in field goal percentage, and No. 6 in defensive rebound percentage.

Perhaps more importantly: He became a fan favorite for his physical style of play, mental toughness, and leadership in the locker room.

The criticism of Kanter is that, in the modern NBA, his inability to space the floor limits his offensive value. Thankfully, he’s dedicated himself to improving his proficiency from beyond the arc—due in large part to David Fizdale’s encouragement.

The question, of course, is whether or not Kanter will continue to hone his craft as a member of the Knicks.

Must Read: Five reasons to sign Mario Hezonja in free agency

In the event that Enes Kanter opts out of his current contract, the New York Knicks will have competition for that opportunity.