12. Allonzo Trier (1 year, $3.38 million; $3.55 million team option for 2019-20)
Only signed to a deal one week ago, Allonzo Trier now makes $3.38 million for the rest of 2018-19 and holds a $3.55 million team option for 2019-20. It’s remarkable for a player that went undrafted in June, and signed a two-way contract with just a 45-day maximum on the main roster.
This holds great value for the New York Knicks, as they keep one of their most promising players on a relatively inexpensive contract. But, it would not be difficult for anyone to acquire this salary.
Like the other young talents, there’s no reason for Trier to leave via trade. He’s a cheap, young talent to work into the Knicks’ future and should stick around for 2019-20.
11. Damyean Dotson (1 year, $1.37 million; $1.61 million unguaranteed for 2019-20)
Damyean Dotson is cheaper than Trier and holds a smaller salary, but he has not received as consistent playing time and stands two years older than the New York Knicks’ rising rookie.
That hardly deters Dotson’s value as, when playing, he acts as a steady piece off the bench and holds starter potential; that’s with solid outside shooting and the ability to defend the perimeter in 20-25 minutes per game.
Dotson’s unguaranteed salary for just $1.61 million gives a team an affordable contract to squeeze onto its roster. Plus, the $1.37 million for 2018-19 makes matching money too easy.
Would the Knicks actually move Dotson? Teams showed interest, but he’s an affordable piece for the organization to keep, especially if it must fill out the roster, if a big-name free agent signs next offseason.