Chris Bosh confident in Knicks as a superstar destination

Chris Bosh stayed positive on the New York Knicks’ outlook in attracting free agents next summer.

July 2019 will open over $30 million in cap space for the New York Knicks. It’s enough to draw one player on a maximum contract, potentially from a group of Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson or Jimmy Butler, pending any of them depart their respective teams.

A marquee free agent would join Kristaps Porzingis, Tim Hardaway Jr. and the other young pieces in place to eye a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. How much more talent they need after that remains to be seen.

At Monday’s preseason game against the Washington Wizards, Chris Bosh was in attendance with his family and spoke on the Knicks, with a discussion on their future, according to Marc Berman of The New York Post.

Bosh seemed confident in New York’s ability to eventually draw a big name or two to join the young core, with the eventual expectations that follow:

"“It’s a building,’’ Bosh said. “That’s one of the best things about it. I say this lightly, but it’s an easy period for the city to embrace the team and the young guys and the core of what they’re trying to do. Later on, I’m sure we’ll get into one, two superstars that are going to come here and then the narrative will change. And it will be up to them to live up to the expectation. It’s interesting to make an imprint on the Eastern Conference.’’"

If the Knicks can attract a superstar or two, without LeBron James in the Eastern Conference, they have the chance to make noise in the playoffs. The Boston Celtics, Philadelphia 76ers and Toronto Raptors proved formidable in recent seasons, but the NBA landscape can turn on a dime with superstar movement.

However, it’s easier said than done for the Knicks, who last signed attracted a superstar free agent in 2010, when Amar’e Stoudemire arrived and kicked off a fresh era of basketball. Carmelo Anthony joined via trade months later, and New York made its multi-year run to the postseason.

A similar dose of magic could be on the way in 2019, pending one of these big names depart for new destinations; anyone who stays can sign a five-year max contract, an unattainable length anywhere else. It puts outside teams, including the Knicks, at a disadvantage.

Of course there may be a player, like LeBron James, who prioritizes the situation in free agency. The Knicks have some potential pieces to surround a bigger name and work with Porzingis upon return from a torn ACL.

Is it appealing enough for free agents? That could depend on individual success in 2018-19, with the youth’s development at the forefront. If they take a step forward, and Porzingis shows resemblance to the player of old, throw the Knicks into the hat.