Elimination from the playoffs hurts, but it offers a clear look ahead at the offseason. For the New York Knicks, there are spots open at every position.
With the New York Knicks officially in offseason mode, it’s time to start looking at prospective trades and free-agent pickups. According to Spotrac, New York has the most cap space at the moment, with a perspective amount of $67 million this offseason. That’s the most in the NBA.
With that will come the pressure of pairing another superstar to sign with Julius Randle. Every year the Knicks are in the running and mentions with the top free agents, but this year that’s even more so. Making the playoffs with a young and improving roster should make Manhattan and Madison Square Garden a more attractive destination.
Admittedly, this year isn’t overly bright for free agents. Kawhi Leonard and Chris Paul are the marquee grabs, but there’s no word on if they’ll even be available. Paul has announced intentions to turn down an extension in favor of a longer, more sustained contract. That could mean he’s staying in the desert. As for Kawhi, my guess is as good as yours.
This leaves a long list of seasoned veterans just below superstar and even all-star level at this point in their respective careers. It’s also a solid list for unproven youngsters, the type of players that have excelled enough to sign a pretty rich deal, but not necessarily change a franchise on day one.
This could mean that the New York Knicks will also eye the trade market. Damian Lillard is already on the mind of Knicks fans and apparently the organization:
The Knicks have reportedly called the Blazers about Damian Lillard https://t.co/ksk9NqjPak pic.twitter.com/lAsZ9jywAs
— SNY (@SNYtv) June 4, 2021
Whatever route New York decides to take, this offseason may be the most pressure they’ve felt in a long while. This franchise is ready to win and to do that, Julius Randle either needs a whole lot more help or another superstar to be paired with.