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Knicks: What fans should be thankful for this holiday season

By Ken Tavarez

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 01: A view outside the Madison Square Garden as the city continues the re-opening efforts following restrictions imposed to slow the spread of coronavirus on December 01, 2020 in New York City. The pandemic has caused long-term repercussions throughout the tourism and entertainment industries, including temporary and permanent closures of historic and iconic venues, costing the city and businesses billions in revenue. (Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 01: A view outside the Madison Square Garden as the city continues the re-opening efforts following restrictions imposed to slow the spread of coronavirus on December 01, 2020 in New York City. The pandemic has caused long-term repercussions throughout the tourism and entertainment industries, including temporary and permanent closures of historic and iconic venues, costing the city and businesses billions in revenue. (Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images) /
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Julius Randle, New York Knicks (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

Reason #3 to be thankful: No bad contracts

Julius Randle and Elfrid Payton are probably the two most unpopular Knicks at the moment, but neither is signed to a bad contract. Payton is on 1-year deal for $4.8MM. Julius Randle is the highest paid player at $18.9MM per season, but next season, his last, is only guaranteed for $4MM. Randle’s contract will be in high demand at the trade deadline this season for that reason.

Reason #4 to be thankful: R.J. Barrett

The main reason the Knicks don’t have many bad contracts is because they are building through the draft.

RJ Barrett is the highest draft pick the Knicks have had since Patrick Ewing was selected 1st overall in 1985. Last season, he proved he was worthy of the pick despite playing on a poorly constructed roster. He looks like he has gotten better based on what we have seen thus far this season. His development is the key to turning the team around. Having him as a foundational piece will make New York a more attractive destination for star players.

Reason #5 to be thankful: Draft Picks

The early results on the teams two #1 draft picks look good. Both are older, more mature players that had to work hard for their success. Obi Toppin is considered a steal with the 8th pick.

Immanuel Quickley has captured everyone’s imagination and has received nothing but glowing praise from Coach Thibodeau. Plus, Quickley also can technically be considered a return from the Porzingis trade since Marcus Morris was signed with the cap space created from that trade. It’s a stretch, but technically true.

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