New York Knicks: How signing a superstar impacts their incumbent teams

New York Knicks: How a superstar signing impacts their incumbent team

HOUSTON, TX - MAY 4: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors looks on against the Houston Rockets during Game Three of the Western Conference Semifinals of the 2019 NBA Playoffs on May 4, 2019 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. 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 Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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Toronto Raptors Kawhi Leonard (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /

Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard, maybe the second-best free agent of the 2019 class, has the quietest situation of the bunch. It ties to his silent personality, which was seen throughout his San Antonio Spurs tenure.

The Toronto Raptors are in good shape with Leonard, although they are tied 2-2 with the Sixers in their playoff series. Winning can’t hurt his chances to exercise a player option or re-sign for a long-term deal, but if losing in the second round could leave the Raptors in shambles.

Trading DeMar DeRozan was always a risk because of Leonard’s unknown future, while the former face of the franchise seemed committed to the team north of the border. Watching Leonard leave for the Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks or another team with cap space resets Toronto’s timeline for success.

A core of Kyle Lowry, Pascal Siakiam, Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol may win more than 42-45 games, but not advance further than the first round. Plus, Toronto has never been a free agent destination. Their best bet to recoup talent is via risky trades like the Leonard one or draft well. Entering 2019-20 with that group may not place them in the lottery, but in the late teens or early 20s, which usually does not offer top-tier talent.

Losing Leonard may start the Raptors decline down the standings after years in the top three of the East. Siakam is a bright spot, but aging veterans surround him, and that can’t last.