The New York Knicks recently signed free agent point guard Kadeem Allen to a training camp deal. Here are five reasons to love the decision.
When the New York Knicks parted ways with small forward Troy Williams, most expected the roster to be set in stone. It was plausible that New York would move some of its veterans for long-term assets, but the general consensus was that the rotations were the only remaining question.
The Knicks shattered that belief by signing two players within a period of 24 hours—both of whom will compete for roster spots at training camp.
New York made waves by adding former top-10 draft pick Noah Vonleh on a partially guaranteed one-year contract. Vonleh, a power forward with the length to be a small-ball 5, could push the likes of Isaiah Hicks and Luke Kornet for their spots on the roster.
According to Michael Scotto of The Athletic, the Knicks have agreed to a contract with free agent and former Arizona Wildcats guard Kadeem Allen.
The New York Knicks and free agent guard Kadeem Allen have agreed to a deal, a league source told The Athletic.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) July 25, 2018
New York announced the signing shortly thereafter via Twitter.
New York Knicks announced today that the team has signed guard Kadeem Allen.
— NY_KnicksPR (@NY_KnicksPR) July 25, 2018
This may seem like an inconsequential signing due to the depth that New York has at the point guard position, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Allen has the tools to provide the Knicks with a player who can facilitate the implementation of a new system and culture. He contributes on both ends of the floor, and has the attributes that New York seems to be looking for in the backcourt.
There’s no guaranteeing that Kadeem Allen will make the roster in 2018-19, but he has the tools to be of significant aid to the New York Knicks.
Here are five reasons you should love the signing.