New York Knicks: Outlook for every player in Kristaps Porzingis trade

NEW YORK, NY - JANUARY 30: Dennis Smith Jr. #1 of the Dallas Mavericks handles the ball against the New York Knicks on January 30, 2019 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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New York Knicks Courtney Lee (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Courtney Lee

Another player previously on the trade block, maybe since the preseason, the New York Knicks finally unloaded Courtney Lee and his guaranteed eight-figure salary for 2019-20. What originally started as a showcase season, turned into an injury-riddled two months and a spot at the end of head coach David Fizdale’s bench.

Lee was just a serviceable player nine months ago, turning in a 40-percent shooting season from behind the arc, while providing quality perimeter defense. He looked rusty in 11 games with the Knicks in 2018-19, and never had a chance to regain a role in this youth movement.

In Dallas, Lee can slot behind Hardaway Jr. in the guard rotation. Maybe not with a high minutes total, but enough to become a fine backup.

This Mavs team can make the playoffs, too, if just an outside chance. They sit five games out of the eighth seed, and Lee’s veteran play could contribute in a depth role.

Otherwise, this is a player that will sit in Dallas. He then becomes an expiring contract in 2019-20 and an interesting trade asset if this organization wants another top name. The alternative is shedding cap space for 2020 free agency, which is not bad, either, for this rising franchise.

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