New York Knicks: One expectation for each 2019 NBA free agent signing

Reggie Bullock: A consistent floor-spacer in the backcourt

Ellington and Reggie Bullock fill identical needs for the New York Knicks, except with the latter man’s contract, he might find a bigger role on a team that needs consistent shooters playing heavy minutes.

Bullock developed into a quality shooter by the 2015-16 season, after bouncing between the Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns. It made him more than just a journeyman player, but someone a team can rely on to shoot from distance in the modern-day, floor-spacing NBA.

Since 2015-16, Bullock has averaged 40.4 percent three-point shooting on 4.1 attempts per game. The Knicks had few players capable of those numbers last season, so an extra presence, especially in the backcourt, will be a welcomed sight for head coach David Fizdale.

The North Carolina product can work off the inconsistent shooting of the point guards, Kevin Knox and potentially RJ Barrett, who struggled stretching the floor in college.

Will Bullock start, though? Fizdale was liberal with his lineups in the team’s “developmental” season, but more starting-caliber players are on this roster. It might take a training camp to decide that or within the season’s first weeks.

Bullock’s average annual value of $10.5 million may lead to a main role with the Knicks, either as a starter or a top reserve. Either way, this should be a valuable option for a team that struggled mightily.