New York Knicks: Predicting the depth chart for the 2018-19 season

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 8: David Fizdale is announced as the new head coach of the New York Knicks during a press conference on May 8, 2018 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. 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 Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 14: Tim Hardaway Jr. #3 of the New York Knicks handles the ball against the Washington Wizards on February 14, 2018 at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Starter: Tim Hardaway Jr.

The New York Knicks made a surprising move in last year’s free agency when they signed Tim Hardaway Jr. to a four-year, $71 million contract. The money wasn’t as surprising, due to the rise in the salary cap cap and the demand for shooting guards.

What surprised me and many others was re-signing the player they drafted, and traded away for a first-round draft pick just two seasons later.

Nonetheless, Hardaway has made a big impact with the Knicks after taking somewhat of a gap year with the Atlanta Hawks. With an increase in maturity and offensive versatility, Hardaway became a genuine building piece for the Knicks.

He may not be a first option, as shown with the absence of Porzingis, but he’s still young and has shown steady improvements throughout his playing career.

After having a career season with the Knicks, Hardaway will start if healthy. He averaged a career-high 17.5 points per game during the 2017-18 season, and did so while battling injuries that inevitably hindered him on both ends of the floor.

There are intriguing options at the 2-spot, but this is Hardaway’s race to lose—and it’s difficult to believe he will as David Fizdale looks for offensive options.

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