New York Knicks: 2020 free agents to wait for if 2019 offseason fails

Anthony Davis (Player Option)

Anthony Davis is the biggest wild card of 2020 free agency, depending on if he makes it there, after the hoopla with the New Orleans Pelicans over his in-season trade request and the awkward situation it created when now-former general manager, Dell Demps, did nothing.

No matter where Davis plays in 2019-20 — even if he stays in New Orleans, as new executive David Griffin teased — he can still hit the open market and command a maximum contract at age 27.

The New York Knicks spoke to the Pelicans before the trade deadline, including mixing Kristaps Porzingis into offers, but nothing materialized. They arguably do not have the pieces to send now, even after the deal, unless Kevin Knox, Frank Ntilikina, Dennis Smith Jr. and draft picks are enough, not featuring Mitchell Robinson.

Not making a trade can actually benefit the Steve Mills-lead front office. They may sign Davis in 2020 without giving up anything but cap space. It takes away their ability to go above the cap to re-sign him if he arrives in the 2019 offseason, but this is the next-best scenario, especially if the top names don’t sign in July.

Davis can play next to Robinson and form a dynamic, athletic, shot-blocking duo for the next four years. The NBA has trended away from starting two seven-footers, but talents as unique as these two could make it work, with one stretching the floor and the other inside the paint — likely Davis and Robinson, respectively.

2019 free agency should remain the focus for the New York Knicks, but falling short remains possible. The silver lining is not as bright, but there are alternatives to fill the roster and payroll with quality talents.