New York Knicks: Ranking the top 2019 free agents targets

TORONTO, ONTARIO - JUNE 10: DeMarcus Cousins #0 of the Golden State Warriors reacts in the fourth quarter against the Toronto Raptors during Game Five of the 2019 NBA Finals at Scotiabank Arena on June 10, 2019 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 Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

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

1. Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard is the wild card of the New York Knicks free agency, yet the top player for them to target. Off a championship season with the Toronto Raptors, if they can land arguably the best two-way player in the NBA, the outlook changes drastically.

According to Yahoo’s Chris Haynes, the Knicks are working on setting up a meeting with Leonard once free agency starts. This may not be his top option, but if New York can at least sit him down, they have a chance.

Leonard’s options are both Los Angeles teams and returning to Toronto. While a select few teams, one offered a championship this past season and the other two could have title-winning rosters set up by the end of the summer.

The Knicks, however, do not have this, unless they sign a superstar to join Leonard. Barrett, Robinson, Knox, and Smith Jr. are not a contending formula and probably not enough to make the postseason.

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This is a pipedream for New York. Leonard changes their organization with his arrival, but only if he thinks this option is superior to returning home or staying in a city that will cater to him for life. Manhattan is a location to market his brand. Basketball-wise, there is not much at the moment.