New York Knicks: Offseason predictions for the young core
Player: Damyean Dotson
2019-20 Season Statistics: 6.7 PPG, 1.9 RPG, 1.2 APG, 41.4 FG%, 36.2 3P%
Prediction: Signs Elsewhere
Damyean Dotson and Frank Ntilikina are the lone holdovers from the Phil Jackson regime. He selected them in the 2017 NBA draft.
They are the longest-tenured Knicks on the roster and, since then, Dotson has become a fan favorite. He’s developed into the prototypical 3-and-D wing in today’s NBA for his ability to space the floor and play hard-nosed defense.
His strengths stretch off the court, as well. He has been a significant locker room presence, has a great work ethic, and has never complained about his playing time.
Take it from former head coach David Fizdale, who was very high on Dotson. Per Marc Berman of The New York Post:
"“He’s got a great work ethic, leadership qualities, and toughness,’’ former Knicks coach David Fizdale told The Post this week. “He’s an extremely coachable and dedicated teammate. Totally committed to the culture with a consistently good attitude regardless of his minutes.’’"
His role with the team diminished this season following a 10.7 points per game sophomore year. Interim head coach Mike Miller went to veteran wings Reggie Bullock and Wayne Ellington over Dotson, showing little interest in developing the 25-year-old.
Dotson did not play in eight of the New York Knicks’ last nine games of the season, and his playing time has been incredibly inconsistent ever since the team selected him in 2017.
Despite not being much of a ball-handler or shot-creator, Dotson’s value as a 3-and-D wing has garnered interest from the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, and Utah Jazz, according to Marc Berman of the New York Post.
"According to NBA sources, three prominent organizations — the Jazz, Bucks and Warriors — are expected to show some interest in Dotson, who made $1.6 million this season as a “3-and-D’’ prototype."
Dotson could greatly benefit from playing on a perennial playoff team where he could get consistent minutes and thrive from the spacing created by the superstars of the squads mentioned.
The best way for Dotson to secure a long-term deal and boost his value is to prove it on a winning team on a bigger stage. The Knicks’ inability to give him consistent minutes or put together a winning situation has inhibited Dotson’s growth as a player.
It makes sense for Dotson to explore his options. With Leon Rose showing interest in bringing back Maurice Harkless this offseason, Dotson might not have a choice.