New York Knicks: Five way-too-early free agent targets in 2019

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 26: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors high fives fans prior to the game against the New York Knicks on February 26, 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)
NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 26: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors high fives fans prior to the game against the New York Knicks on February 26, 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)

The New York Knicks are expected to be players for many of the league’s top free agents this summer. These are the top five targets the Knicks should be willing to break the bank for.

The 2018-19 season is far from over for the New York Knicks, but there’s still an eye on the future. It starts with the youth already in place, including Mitchell Robinson, Kevin Knox and Frank Ntilikina, as they develop into pieces for the team in 2019-20 and beyond.

2019-20 is already a focus, due to July’s star-studded group of free agents. The Knicks project to have over $30 million in cap space towards it, so their team may look different when next October arrives.

Who can New York target from this group, though?

5. Kemba Walker

A New York Native who is more than familiar with the bright lights of the Garden, Kemba Walker would be an ideal running mate for Kristaps Porzingis. The Hornets have made clear they intend to keep Walker in their future plans, yet if the allure of New York can grab the point guard’s attention, he would be a worthy investment to a Knicks offense lacking premier scoring punch.

4. Tobias Harris

In his second season with the Clippers, Tobias Harris has established himself as a legitimate star offensively. The versatile wing has provided the Clippers with both a go-to scoring option and a capable rebounder. Harris’ size and offensive versatility make him an intriguing under the radar target for the Knicks.

3. Kawhi Leonard

Following Kawhi Leonard‘s departure from San Antonio, the media continues to question the next move of the silent superstar. Clearly, the claw was unhappy as a Spur, yet what was he truly looking for. If the answer is a platform in which to maximize his marketability as the best player in the Eastern Conference, the Knicks should have Uncle Dennis on speed dial.

2. Klay Thompson

No, this won’t happen. Yes, I’m still allowed to dream. As the NBA’s top three-point shooter, an elite on-ball defender, and the hard-nosed mentality necessary for New York’s top athletes, Klay Thompson would be perfect to lead the young Knicks. He has been the other splash brother for quite some time; a change of scenery could provide him with the spotlight he deserves.

1. Kevin Durant

New York basketball needs a savior. The fan base has suffered through countless seasons of being told that the team was building for next year. Kevin Durant may be the most hated player in all of basketball. A walking meme who has been photoshopped into the jersey of every team that has ever won anything. Kevin, if you’re reading this, we can save each other.