NY Knicks CAA Files: Unrestricted Free Agents Leon Rose might target

Unrestricted free agents with CAA connections: Danilo Gallinari

Almost a decade later, it would be fun for Knicks fans if the team reunited with Danilo Gallinari, the Knicks’ 6th overall pick in 2008, who is represented by Michael Tellem of CAA.

Gallinari has had a stellar season with the Thunder, averaging 19.2 points/game on 41% from three (3 made threes/game). He has started to show more signs of durability and consistency after several injury-shortened seasons. He’s been a fan favorite with advanced stats due to his ability to make the three and get to the foul line. This season, Gallo spent the bulk of his time at the power forward position, stretching the floor for the Thunder.

Acquiring Gallinari won’t be cheap as he’s due for a payday similar to the 3-years/$64 million he received on his current deal. At the age of 32, this might be his last significant long-term deal. There are plenty of teams interested in Gallinari, but the Knicks may be one of the few that have the cap room to sign him.

The biggest questions with the Italian forward surround his injury history and the direction of the roster. Committing a long-term contract to Gallo, given his lack of durability, is still a significant risk. Additionally, signing Gallinari signals that the team is looking to contend. This counteracts with the direction the team took over the past few seasons, where lottery picks surmounted to wins.

However, it’s undeniable Gallinari is a winning player and that his teammates will stand to benefit from his impact on both ends of the floor.