Kyrie Irving

New York Knicks to get a mere phone call interview with Kawhi Leonard

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New York Knicks to pursue Kawhi Leonard.

While it’s not always the best idea to believe in pre-free agency rumors, there could be some truth behind them, especially for the New York Knicks. With star point guard Kyrie Irving reportedly going to the Brooklyn Nets, it’s expected that Kevin Durant will follow in his footsteps.

The Knicks are being coined as “no mans land” for superstars, as some aren’t even willing to give them the time of day for an “in person” interview. Toronto Raptors star, Kawhi Leonard, is keen on giving the Knicks a mere phone interview and nothing more.

The youth agenda the team has adopted has clearly been a deterrence for some free agent, as moving to an established team with a veteran presence seems more attractive.

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith went as far as to say:

The New York Knicks, from what I’m hearing, it’s bad enough no one anticipates they’re going to get anybody…I’m hearing the New York Knicks might not even get an interview in person. If they get something, it’ll be phoners. I haven’t spoken to the Knicks, I don’t know if that’s true. But I’m hearing a phoner! Phoners, Max! Phoners.

If the organization strikes out on all of the superstars, they will have to dig into a second-tier market that includes D’Angelo Russell, Julius Randle, Demarcus Cousins, Bobby Portis, Tobias Harris and more. There’s plenty of talent that will be remaining for the Knicks to search through.

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Rumors have also indicated that the Knicks could look to sign second-tier players to a one-year deal in an attempt to remain competitive in 2019 but to also keep their cap space flexible for the 2020 free agent class. That’s the best case scenario given the strikeout this offseason.

Kyrie Irving still a possibility for the New York Knicks in free agency

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What should the New York Knicks do if they lose out on Celtics star, Kyrie Irving?

The New York Knicks need to make a move quick on Kyrie Irving before free agents can sign on June 30:

With rumors stating that Kyrie Irving is leaning towards signing with the Brooklyn Nets in free agency, there’s still plenty of time left until the rumors become reality.

The Knicks were the favorites just two weeks ago and now the Nets, but given their lack of fan-attendance and inability to succeed at the NBA level, there’s a hope for a Knicks organization that has seen one side of that…the losing.

Despite their failure to compete for quite some time, the fans have never faltered, consistently enjoying the games even during a 17 win season in 2018. Knicks fans are some of the most loyal but are also frustrated with the methods used to enjoy success. Phil Jackon struck out, James Dolan continues to confuse people, but it’s Scott Perry and Steve Mills’ time to shine.

Irving, the most dynamic point guard in the NBA, is still up for grabs. The reality of a starving organization is that they will likely spend more than they need to in free agency, and with $73 million in open cap space, I anticipate they will do just that.

The Knicks aren’t going to splash the cash for just anybody:

Reports have stated the Knicks will only offer a max deal to Irving, Kevin Durant, and Kawhi Leonard, three of the NBA’s most polarizing players, but the question remains — what makes the Knicks attractive?

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Is it there youth agenda and potential in 2020? Next season can really be considered a competitive one with RJ Barrett going into his rookie season and players like Kevin Knox, Mitchell Robinson, Damyeon Dotson, and Allonzo Trier only enjoying one year of pro basketball.

Convincing superstars to join a team with little to no veteran experience will be tough, but maybe the Knicks can take a different approach towards swaying Irving back to MSG. Both Durant and Irving have discussed playing together and are keen on partnering up, so if the Knicks can convince Durant, which seems to be the more likely of the two to sign, it’s possible he could be the catalyst in bringing in Irving as well.

There’s one thing for sure, though, this offseason is going to be a wild ride.

 

New York Knicks: Is Demarcus Cousins a viable option in free agency?

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New York Knicks, demarcus cousins

The optimism to land superstar Kevin Durant in free agency is dwindling for the New York Knicks, despite his moving from Malibu to the city that never sleeps. With concern over potentially striking a deal, there has to be a backup plan, or rather plan(s).

It has been reported that the Knicks might look to sign Durant’s former teammate with the Golden State Warriors, Demarcus Cousins. A potential big-money, one-year deal could be in the works, however, I don’t necessarily see the value there.

Signing a one-year deal would only take playing time away from the young core of the Knicks in what should be another building season where their player gain essential experience so they can compete in 2020.

The Knicks seem more interested in finding a true organization leader that can carry the team with deficiencies at other positions than diving into the second-tier market. Players like Tobias Harris and Kemba Walker might even be out of their comfort zone.

The New York Knicks are ready to spend big money:

If they’re focused on bringing in the best of the best, I anticipate them dropping serious cash to bring in a top player — record-breaking money.

The contingency plan, though, is to sign short-term deals to keep flexibility in their cap space moving forward so they can pursue other top option next year. With players like Durant, Kyrie Irving and Kawhi Leonard available right now, it’s important they land one max-contract player.

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Cousins, the player of notice, was adequate with the Warriors, nothing more, nothing less. He averaged 16 points and eight boards per game in 30 regular-season games. While we can chalk up his decent season to adaptation hurdles, there’s reason to believe he can succeed in New York.

Again, taking time away from the Knicks youth to sign a one-year max-deal doesn’t make much sense unless they truly believe 2019 can be a competitive season.

 

 

New York Knicks can rule out Kemba Walker in point guard market

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New York Knicks, Kemba Walker

The New York Knicks have two max-contracts available, the issue is, the superstar options are dwindling as the Brooklyn Nets have emerged as favorites in the Big Apple. It seems as if $73 million in open cap isn’t enough to lure high profile players anymore — winning is the priority, which at the end of the day is a good thing for the NBA.

With Kyrie Irving planning to take his talents to Brooklyn, the point guard market is down one elite talent for the Knicks. There’s more bad news, though, as Charlotte Hornet’s star Kemba Walker has reportedly ruled out a comeback to his native city.

For the first time in his career, Walker will be an unrestricted free agent. That rules out two points guards for a franchise in need of a truly elite player to lead their youth to the promised land. The hopes of signing Kevin Durant remain alive, but rumors have emerged that he’s keen on playing alongside Irving. The former Celtic going to the Nets doesn’t bode well for the Knicks in their hunt to land Durant.

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In 2018, cardiac Kemba averaged 25.6 points, 4.4 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game while shooting 43.4 percent from the field. He also landed 35.6 percent of three-pointers and shot 84.4 percent from the free-throw line.

All elite statistics for a point guard in the NBA — the Hornets have a solid shot of returning their best player. They have enough cap to resign him for the long-haul, putting the Knicks in a position where D’Angelo Russell could be the best option available.

All offseason the Knicks looked like the front-runners to land both Kyrie and Durant, but their obvious youth and lack of experience has become a concern for veteran players looking to win now.

New York Knicks preparing for disappointing offseason at hands of the Nets

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As the rumor mill spirals on, the New York Knicks will have to weed out the fake from the truth. Kevin Durant has publically stated his intentions to play with Kyrie Irving, and the star point guard is close to taking his talents to Brooklyn. This would indicate Durant’s following, but nothing is set in stone, the favorited teams will continue to take turns at the helm.

The Knicks have a solid youthful team looking to take a jump and sign a few big names in free agency. Madison Square Garden is a place most players dream of playing, but the inadequacies of the Knicks have turned superstars away from the spotlight in the past.

However, the organization seems to be going in a different direction, something that could be attractive at this point in time. The problem is, the Brooklyn Nets are also revolutionizing their mentality towards winning and success. The truth is, they might be the more attractive team coming off a playoff caliber season.

Are the New York Knicks in a position to win now?

The Knicks, who won just 17 games last season, are still at least a year away from being playoff contenders, a major turnoff for any big name free agents looking to make a change. Players like Durant want to compete immediately and not waste time on the shelf during their best years.

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Owner James Dolan predicted “a very successful offseason when it comes to free agents,” but the injury to Durant have complicated things. In addition, the market of superstars seems to be dwindling in interest towards the Knicks, which could indicate a secondary market shopping spree.

Players like D’Angelo Russell and Willie Cauley-Stein could be attractive options for a team building around their youth players and prospects. The team simply isn’t experienced enough to dominate and compete at a high level just yet, which is the hurdle they will have to face in free agency.

New York Knicks: D’Angelo Russell looking more like a reality

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New York Knicks, D'Angelo Russell

With Kyrie Irving reportedly taking his talents to the Brooklyn Nets, the New York Knicks are in a good position to pursue D’Angelo Russell for their starting point guard position.

Irving, who was unhappy in Boston, will make his return to New York with the Nets being the favored team. The atmosphere and direction they’re headed seem to be more in-line with Kyrie’s goals. That will certainly influence the decision of superstar Kevin Durant and other free agents looking to make a move to the Big Apple.

Russell has already stated he wants to stay in New York, which is a good sign for the Knicks since it would be a short drive up to Madison Square Garden.

SNY’s Ian Begley stated:

“If Irving ends up signing in Brooklyn, it may have an interesting ripple effect on the roster, particularly D’Angelo Russell.”

“Russell, a restricted free agent, will likely draw significant interest on the open market. The 23-year-old is coming off of an All-Star season in which he helped lead Brooklyn to the playoffs. Members of the Pacers organization are high on Russell” [SNY]

After drafting RJ Barrett with the 3rd overall pick on Thursday night, it leaves the point guard position thin. They do have Dennis Smith Jr. and Frank Ntilikina at the spot, but the reality is neither will likely be franchise caliber players. Smith Jr. is a solid offensive performer but needs to work on his defense.

Russell presents an elite option that likely wouldn’t require a max-contract to sign. That allows the Knicks to bring in a superstar and more, which would help the team ‘establish a sense of veteranship and stability. Additionally, having quality depth is always a positive thing.

However, they should still be focused on providing their young players with ample playing time to aid their development. I do think, though, that Russell would be a great addition for the Knicks.

 

New York Knicks: Will RJ Barrett lure big free agents to Big Apple?

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New York Knicks, RJ Barrett

As expected, the New York Knicks selected Duke star RJ Barrett with the 3rd overall pick. After fending off the Atlanta Hawks for the Knicks’ first-round pick, it was nearly a guarantee they’ be selecting the 6-foot-7 swingman.

Barrett will bring a tenacious mentality towards success and production in New York, despite shooting just 31% from behind the arc and 67% from the free-throw line last season. Those two deficiencies will be ironed out in his rookie campaign, but his potential remains sky-high.

What does RJ Barrett bring to the New York Knicks?

An elite scorer around the rim and solid defender, RJ has the ability to take the Knicks to another level during his career. His influence alone should be a catalyst in luring max-contract players to the Mecca.

The hardest part in recruiting superstars will be convincing them to have faith in the youth agenda the Knicks are following. A majority of their players are under 20-years-old, which puts the team in a good position. If they aren’t able to bring in a player like Kevin Durant, they can simply continue forward with their young players and continue developing them.

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However, signing Durant and a high-profile point guard would go a long way in the growth of the young players and allowing them to see success early on in their careers. A devastatingly poor season in 2018 surely didn’t help them in their overall confidence, but it was essential for them to earn playing time and understand the talent they must compete against.

Barrett, though, is versed in competition, and would likely have been the consensus No. 1 pick if Zion Williamson hadn’t taken college basketball by storm. Moving forward, we should expect to see the Knicks aggressively pursue Durant and Kawhi Leonard in free agency.

With rumors of Kyrie Irving taking his talents to the Brooklyn Nets, D’Angelo Russell has emerged as a legitimate option for the Knicks beyond Irving and Kemba Walker.

Why the New York Knicks should keep Frank Ntilikina

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New York Knicks, Frank Ntilikina

The youth on the New York Knicks allows them to think for the future and not the present – the reality is, the organization is at least one season away from being a legitimate contender, and that’s if they can lure in a max-contract player to help spark an accelerated sense of progress.

Keeping the already applied youth players should be a priority, but there are some on the cusp of veteranship that are considered trading pieces.

According to Ian Begley of SNY.tv, they are reportedly shopping Ntilikina for a potential trade:

“Ntilikina has been a part of trade rumors for several months. It is unclear what the Knicks would be looking for in return for a Ntilikina deal, but the New York Post, which first reported the Knicks’ willingness to move Ntilikina, says the club is looking for a late first or second-round pick.”

I don’t believe they should trade Ntilikina for one simple reason, his defense. If the Knicks are unable to sign a quality point guard in free agency, they will be left with Dennis Smith Jr. who is more versed in scoring that defensive ability. The team has only a few hours left to acquire a draft pick this year unless they are willing to move him and earn a selection in 2020.

Letting him go would deplete the roster of a solid defender and a player with plenty of potential. Extracting it has been an issue on the scoring side, but he’s working tirelessly to improve his game.

Frank is entering his third season with the club and will carry a $6.18 million option for the 2020-21 season. If the Knicks decline, they will force Ntilikina to test the waters of free agency next summer. Gaining value now by adding a draft pick makes sense, but only if they are able to bring in a point guard like Kyrie Irving, Kemba Walker, or even Ja Morant in the draft.

New York Knicks: What happens if Kyrie Irving takes his talents to Brooklyn?

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What should the New York Knicks do if they lose out on Celtics star, Kyrie Irving?

There’s a simple reality to Kyrie Irving potentially taking his talents to the Brooklyn Nets and dragging Kevin Durant along with him. The New York Knicks will have to settle for the next best thing, and that might very well be D’Angelo Russell.

The star Nets points guard had an All-Star season in 2018, averaging 21.1 points-per-game. However, he’s still the second, or even third point guard choice for the Knicks as Kemba Walker remains a possibility.

Irving has expressed his desire to join the Nets – an indicator being his signing with Roc Nation, the CEO being the brother of the Nets’ general manager.  Irving has already sat down with Durant and spoken about playing together in the Big Apple. At this point, signs are pointing towards the Nets, but ruling out the Knicks so early in the free agent window would be ignorant.

According to Ric Bucher of Fox Sports:

“I’m told Kevin Durant has moved all his stuff to New York and will spend the summer there,” Bucher said on The Herd. “He and Kyrie have met and have continued to discuss playing together… Every indication says KD is making plans to be elsewhere.”

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It’s fair to consider Russell, who’s comfortable in New York, a potential option for the Knicks given the injury to Durant and lack of confidence in Irving coming to The Garden. The point guard market will certainly dry up fast, and the draft doesn’t represent many good options aside from Ja Morant, who will likely take his talents to Memphis as they hold the No. 2 pick.

After the premium options, the Knicks would be left to choose from Ricky Rubio, Darren Collison, Patrick Beverley, and Rajon Rondo.

With Russell at 27-years-old, it’s fair to say offering him a max contract would be a good idea. With only one inspiring season under his belt, it would be a risk, but he’s shown that he can play at an extremely high level, and providing him with the weapons to utilize offensively should help him develop even further. It will be interesting to see where the Knicks allocate more resources this offseason.

 

 

 

New York Knicks are running out of superstar options in free agency

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Brooklyn Nets, Boston Celtics, Kyrie Irving

With the 2018 NBA season coming to a close on the backs of the Toronto Raptors and Kawhi Leanard, the New York Knicks will now begin meddling in free agency.

With Kevin Durant tearing his Achilles and expected to miss all of 2019, the premium players are dropping like flies. Add in Klay Thompson’s knee injury, Kyrie Irving’s desire to join the Brooklyn Nets, and Kemba Walker being loyal to the Hornets stating he would take less than a max deal, and the Knicks are in big trouble.

It’s possible they still pursue Durant despite his injury, but it would require them to unload a massive amount of money for essentially no value. However, his return in 2020 would put the organization in a good position to win immediately, especially if they collect another top pick and provide RJ Barrett with a year’s worth of experience.

The New York Knicks could be forced into making a difficult decision:

The scenario where the Knicks save some of their money and stick to their youth guns isn’t a bad one, in fact, it could be the only one after the smoke clears. It’s expected that general manager Scott Perry will pursue Kawhi Leonard in free agency — he believes a meeting is more than possible.

The likeliness of convincing a player like Leonard to come to the bright lights of New York is, well…unlikely. It’s not impossible, though.

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Sticking with Durant and allowing him to fully heal for a year while the Knicks continue to develop their youth isn’t a bad idea. They should stay far away from a potential Anthony Davis trade and begin to think about how they can utilize their ample cap-space to build a competent team capable of winning in the NBA.

It’s getting to a point where the organization could be deemed stagnant if they don’t make any moves this offseason.