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New York Knicks: Five early, potential ‘mid-tier’ targets in 2019 free agency

By Rob Wolkenbrod

TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 05: Danny Green #14 of the Toronto Raptors reacts during their NBA game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Scotiabank Arena on December 5, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. 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 Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - DECEMBER 05: Danny Green #14 of the Toronto Raptors reacts during their NBA game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Scotiabank Arena on December 5, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. 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 Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /
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Toronto Raptors Danny Green (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
Toronto Raptors Danny Green (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /

1. Danny Green

For a few seasons in San Antonio, Danny Green lost some luster, due to consecutive seasons of shooting percentages below 40 percent. He still played stellar defense, but a $10 million salary forced its way into the Kawhi Leonard trade with the Toronto Raptors.

Upon arrival, Green looked like the player that contributed towards a 2014 championship. His 44.4 percent shooting marks the best number since 2012-13 and 41.5 percent from three-point range is one of his top outputs, as well.

Never a dominant scorer, Green should not command a lucrative contract at his next destination, especially at age 32 for 2019-20. So, on a two or three-year deal for $20-to-$30 million, he fits into the New York Knicks as another short-term piece.

It’s no secret how much the Knicks struggle defensively. They allow 115.7 points per game, the fourth-worst mark in the NBA. Teams also shoot 47.8 percent from the field, the second-worst number.

Green enters the fray as someone who may not solve these problems, but trend them positively and change the culture for this young group. Fizdale can even start the North Babylon, NY product ahead of Hardaway, who moves to sixth man in the process.

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This is an affordable player for the Knicks to covet and sign in free agency. Not someone who will break the bank, but a piece that helps a young team improve and potentially be part of something grander.