Who were the best free agent signings for the New York Knicks over the past 20 years?
As New York Knicks fans embark on yet another free agent frenzy in the next week or two, it will be important to remember that the team actually has made some good free agent signings since the century began.
While that comment above is a little bit tongue and cheek, not every free agent acquisition needs to result in a five-time All Star being brought into the fold. Sometimes, the best signings are just about bringing in the right guys at the right time, at (of course) the right price, and while Leon Rose will no doubt look to make a splash in the coming days and weeks, keep an eye out for those under the radar signings who might prove to be vital in turning around the Knicks’ fortunes.
But before we dive into another heart stopping round of “Will the Knicks get this guy, will X take a meeting with them, etc,” let’s look back at the top New York Knicks free agent signings since the year 2000.
A quick note: The Amar’e Stoudemire and Tyson Chandler acquisitions were formally recorded as trades according, which is why they were not considered for this piece. Additionally, Jeremy Lin was officially claimed off waivers, who is another name fans may expect to see on this list, but will not, due to that technicality.
Honorable Mentions: Dikembe Mutombo, Matt Barnes, Timofey Mozgov, Rasheed Wallace, Langston Gallaway.