Knicks: Predicting which potential free agents will return to New York

New York Knicks free agents: Elfrid Payton

2019-20 Stats: 10.0 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 7.2 APG, 1.6 SPG, 27.7 MPG, 43.9 FG%

Prediction: Signs Elsewhere

Elfrid Payton was brought to New York as one of General Manager Scott Perry’s handpicked targets. Perry was instrumental in the Magic taking Payton with the 10th pick in the 2014 NBA draft during his tenure with the team as Vice President.

Payton has underachieved in his career, partly due to the fact that he has failed to develop a jumpshot and consistent offensive game. He has always been a strong facilitator and playmaker, and in New York he quickly seized the starting point guard position.

Much like his stints in Orlando, Phoenix, and New Orleans, Payton was solid and ran the offense well. However, his limitations on offense were still glaring, showing little improvement on that side of the ball as he enters his prime at 26 years old.

Given his lack of improvement and the Knicks’ desire to acquire a point guard in the 2020 NBA draft, Payton is likely to be pushed out the door with his $8 million partial guarantee declined.

The Knicks already have Frank Ntilikina, who the team hopes can turn into a solid contributor, and if they draft another point guard, Payton is the odd man out in a crowded guard group.

Payton will likely secure a new gig this offseason as his playmaking makes him an interesting backup for any team. However, Payton needed to establish himself as a sure fire starter if the Knicks were going to keep him around.