New York Knicks: Five reasons to love Enes Kanter opting in

New York Knicks center Enes Kanter accepted his player option for the 2018-19 season. Here are five reasons to love the decision from the Knicks’ perspective.

New York Knicks center Enes Kanter has a flair for the dramatic. That much was on full display in the weeks leading up to Friday, June 29, when he was faced with a deadline to either accept or decline the player option in his contract for the 2018-19 season.

It was a decision that loomed large over the Knicks, but Kanter ultimately came to the decision to opt in and return to the Knicks.

It was a long and drawn out process, but Kanter finally committed to playing for the franchise that acquired him roughly a calendar year ago.

Kanter was an interesting case study, as he had 18.6 million reasons to opt in, but even more to test free agency. He may not have earned $18.6 million per season on a new deal, but the cumulative wealth would’ve likely exceeded that figure.

Instead, he’s back with the Knicks for a second season, and will give the organization a chance to build for the future with a familiar face.

True as that may be, there are some who question why it is that Knicks fans should be excited to see Kanter return. He has his shortcomings, including lackluster play on defense, and could have been replaced with a better defender.

Fair as the concerns may be, there are reason for New York Knicks fans to love Enes Kanter opting in to his contract—and it’s about more than just himself.