Knicks Rumors: 3 forwards linked to New York in free agency

New York Knicks free agent target: Danilo Gallinari

There are plenty of fans who would love to see a reunion between Danilo Gallinari and the Knicks. The 2008 lottery pick was the Knicks’ highest draft pick since Kenny Walker in 1986, and remained so until the team selected Kristaps Porzingis in 2015.

I remember watching Gallo during his rookie season. I had a mini season ticket package that year, and it was like watching a puppy learn to walk. He was so raw on the court, but you couldn’t help but get excited over this lovable lottery pick that would one day grow up and lead the Knicks back to relevance.

Of course, Gallinari ended up being one of the pieces traded away in the Carmelo Anthony deal with Denver. While never an All-Star, and often injured, after leaving New York, he has built a respectable career as a 6-foot-10 forward who plays as a versatile wing.

The Italian forward hasn’t officially been tied to the Knicks current thinking, but Ian Begley of SNY speculates he will be considered as an option. And Gallinari, himself, recently said he would be open to returning to New York.

The stretch forward turns 32 this summer, but he hasn’t lost the touch on his shot, hitting 40.9% of his threes this season, after connecting on 43.3% last year, both above his 38.1% career average.

If the Knicks could sign Gallo to a short-term deal to give the team some shooting in their frontcourt, it would be a welcome addition.