NY Knicks CAA Files: Restricted Free Agents Leon Rose might target
Restricted free agents with CAA connections: Wesley Iwundu
During Wesley Iwundu’s three seasons with the Orlando Magic, he’s developed a reputation as the quintessential utility player. At 6’7 with a 7’1 wingspan, Iwundu’s become a very solid defensive wing who’s helped the team win games when he’s on the floor. He doesn’t wow you with stats, but his presence is felt. He shot 37% from three during the 2018-19 campaign as his two-way capabilities helped the Magic reach the playoffs.
Over the course of the season, the Magic’s depth has resulted in fewer opportunities for Iwundu. His minutes have been largely inconsistent and he wasn’t able to develop much of a rhythm on the floor. There was nothing wrong with how Iwundu was playing, but instead the issue relied on too many veteran wings above the depth chart.
Iwundu’s going to get another opportunity to audition in his hometown of Orlando once the season resumes. Barring unforeseen circumstances, the Magic will certainly be the #8 seed in the Eastern Conference. Assuming Evan Fournier picks up his option (good chance he does now), the Magic will be over the cap at nearly $117 million, excluding draft picks to start the 2020-21 season. While the Magic can match any offer, there may be less of an inclination to do so now due to COVID-19 and the depth above Iwundu on their roster.
Iwundu would be an interesting fit on the Knicks roster, assuming the team fills out the team with more offensive-laden players. He’s also from Houston, like Damyean Dotson, and can easily be a piece on a winning team. New York previously signed Kyle O’Quinn to a 4-year contract after a three-year stint with the Orlando Magic. It’s fair to say that O’Quinn played well during the duration of the contract. The Knicks may hope for the same fortunes with Iwundu.