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

New York Knicks free agents: Maurice Harkless

2019-20 Stats: 6.8 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.8 SPG, 45.5 FG%, 28.0 3P%

Prediction: Re-signs with the Knicks

Maurice Harkless went from playing a significant role on the title-contending Los Angeles Clippers to playing with the Knicks… rough. Initially included in the trade sending Marcus Morris to the Clippers to match salaries, Leon Rose and the Knicks are reportedly interested in bringing Harkless back this offseason.

At 27-years-old, Harkless is an athletic and versatile wing that flies under the radar for his impact on the game as a defender. He also shot 37% from three with the Clippers before being traded to the Knicks, the epitome of a 3-and-D wing in today’s NBA.

It must have been tough for Harkless to go from winning at a high level to sticking with a lottery team, but he says he is happy to be a Knick and return to his hometown of New York.

He had this to say about the Knicks in a report by Marc Berman of the New York Post:

"“It’s a dream come true,” Harkless said after joining the team before Saturday’s 95-92 win over the Pistons. “I was a Knicks fan growing up. I loved watching the Knicks on TV, I loved coming to the Garden for games when I could. And I actually played at the Garden in college, too, so it’s like I’ve come full circle now.” “Obviously you know like I said playing for the Knicks is a dream come true. If that happens, that would be great. I don’t know what this summer is going to look like. Being in New York would be fine with me.”"

Whether Harkless honestly believes this, or is simply saying all the right things, the Knicks will likely be the only team capable of offering him significant money if the cap goes down.

A short-term deal could make sense for both sides as the Knicks get a young wing, and Maurice Harkless can test the market again when the salary cap goes back up.