New York Knicks: Free agency and trades in 2018, reviewed

Knicks sign Mario Hezonja

This starts the offseason signings in 2018, which were mostly quiet for the New York Knicks, who kept their cap space intact for 2019 free agency. That led to a few low-risk, high-reward moves, including more, former lottery picks.

In 2015, the Orlando Magic selected Mario Hezonja one spot after Kristaps Porzingis. Both were international prospects with intriguing size and upside, but trended down opposite paths over the past three years; Hezonja flopped and did not have his fourth season picked up, while Porzingis became the face of the franchise.

Knicks general manager Scott Perry was part of the Magic group that selected Hezonja, so he took a chance on a one-year, $6.5 million “prove-it” contract in July. That followed three seasons of 41.8 percent shooting and 33.2 percent on three-pointers in Northern Florida.

The Knicks gave Hezonja every chance to succeed, whether as the first player off the bench or in the starting lineup. Nothing solidified, however, as he failed to impress in any role given, with 38.3 percent shooting and 29.3 percent on three-pointers for 6.9 points.

Now, the Croatian forward finds himself in Fizdale’s doghouse, making just two appearances for a combined eight minutes over the past six games. He probably will not leave this role, either.

Six months later, it’s not a positive signing for the Knicks. The risk was always low, but as of Jan. 3, Hezonja does not seem to have a future with this organization.