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New York Knicks: Have these players played their final game with Knicks?

By Jeffrey Bellone

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 12: Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks directs his teammates in the first half against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden on February 12, 2020 in New York City.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 Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 12: Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks directs his teammates in the first half against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden on February 12, 2020 in New York City.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 Elsa/Getty Images) /
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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – FEBRUARY 26: Dennis Smith Jr. #5 of the New York KnicksDennis Smith Jr. #5 of the New York Knicks reacts after a play against the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on February 26, 2020 in Charlotte, North Carolina. 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 Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Dennis Smith Jr.

If I was placing bets on which point guard between Frank Ntilikina, Elfrid Payton, or Dennis Smith Jr. would survive the offseason, even though DSJ is still on his rookie scale contract, I would push my chips to the middle of the table on him being sent out of town.

Ntilikina is far from safe, but he can provide value without needing a lot of minutes or requiring the basketball in his hands. As the Knicks look to improve their point guard position, Smith Jr. only gets in the way of trying to develop a potential lottery pick, or making a veteran addition.

We learned the Knicks were looking to trade Smith Jr. to the Hornets for Malik Monk back in February. Even with Steve Mills gone, it seems likely the NC State alum will find a new home sooner rather than later.

The athletic guard has been limited to only three starts this season due to injuries and personal issues. After averaging 14.5 points on 40.7 percent shooting, along with 5.0 assists and 2.9 turnovers over his career, his numbers have plummeted to just 5.5 points per game on 34.1 percent shooting this season. If anyone can use a change of scenery, it’s Smith Jr.

Don’t be surprised if the Knicks have a very different looking rotation of point guards next season.

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