Daily Knicks
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New York Knicks 2018 free agents: Where are they now?

By Rob Wolkenbrod

PHILADELPHIA,PA - FEBRUARY 12: Jarrett Jack #55 of the New York Knicks dribbles the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers on February 12, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at Wells Fargo Center. Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA,PA - FEBRUARY 12: Jarrett Jack #55 of the New York Knicks dribbles the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers on February 12, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at Wells Fargo Center. Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 21: Michael Beasley #8 of the New York Knicks looks on in the fourth quarter against the Boston Celtics during their game at Madison Square Garden on December 21, 2017 in New York City. 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. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 21: Michael Beasley #8 of the New York Knicks looks on in the fourth quarter against the Boston Celtics during their game at Madison Square Garden on December 21, 2017 in New York City. 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. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

Michael Beasley

After years of issues finding an NBA role, Michael Beasley surprised with arguably his best season since 2010-11, with averages of 13.2 points and 5.6 rebounds on 50.7 percent shooting and 39.5 percent from three-point range. He also played in at least 70 games for the first time since 2012-13.

Former head coach Jeff Hornacek also gave Beasley 30 starts and a heavy dosage of minutes in the final two months of the season. However, the Knicks chose not to bring the hybrid forward back.

Beasley signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers in July, which will pair him with LeBron James, Lance Stephenson, Rajon Rondo and a group of young talent. It’s one of the NBA’s most intriguing teams in the Western Conference, and not just due to LeBron’s presence.

There’s room for Beasley as a reserve behind James, Kyle Kuzma and Brandon Ingram to provide size and scoring ability off the bench. Maybe not defensively, but the Lakers can use the extra punch against a crowded Western Conference.

Kevin Knox, the No. 9 pick of the 2018 NBA Draft, might be Beasley’s replacement. At 6-foot-9, the rookie will bring his own scoring ability off the bench, with the potential to start down the road.

Beasley’s baskets may be missed, but it’s an opportunity for other Knicks to step up.