5 Knicks who will fight to make a name for themselves in training camp

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 23: Head coach Tom Thibodeau of the New York Knicks looks on in the first quarter against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on March 23, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /

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New York Knicks, Phoenix Suns, Duane Washington Jr.

Duane Washington Jr., Phoenix Suns. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) – New York Knicks /

3: Duane Washington Jr.

New York signed Duane Washington Jr. to a two-way at the end of February, and he was waived on July 24. However, the Knicks re-signed him to a training camp contract less than a week later.

The 23-year-old guard had a promising 2021-22 season with the Pacers, averaging 9.9 points, 1.8 assists, and 1.7 rebounds per game, shooting 40.5% from the field and 37.7% from three.

Washington played 31 games for the Suns this past season before he was waived, and he averaged 7.9 points, 2.0 assists, and 1.2 rebounds per game. He isn’t afraid to score, but his defense has held him back since he entered the league. His defensive shortcomings won’t do much in his favor, especially in front of defensive-minded coach Tom Thibodeau at training camp.

Washington isn’t a strong candidate to sign a traditional contract with the Knicks, but a promising training camp/preseason could be enough to catch the eye of the front office. He’s still young, and the more experience he gets, the better.

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