It has been quite some time since the New York Knicks had an adequate front office capable of putting together a team without financially strapping themselves to the ground. Retaining some of their own players preparing to get free agency, the Knicks executed three-year deals, but the final year is not guaranteed, allowing them to move on if need be.
The Knicks signed three-year contracts with Derrick Rose, Nerlens Noel, and Alec Burks. They landed Evan Fournier on a four-year contract and Kemba Walker on a two-year deal, still managing to prepare themselves for the future and the possibility of signing a big name on a max extension.
All-star power forward Julius Randle did the organization a big favor, signing a three-year, $62 million deal, which opens up the possibility of the team pursuing another big-name down the road. Randle took a lesser salary than he would’ve earned if he put together another stellar campaign next year, but after watching Dennis Schroder implode and settle for a fraction of what he was expected to earn with Los Angeles, Randle made the smart decision.
Based on their loyalty and the addition of more scoring talent, one media organization chose a different path when grading the team’s moves.
CBS gave the Knicks an “A” grade for their off-season acquisitions and moves. A surprising reality after handing out a “D” for the selection of Immanuel Quickley just a year ago. It seems they may be catching on.
The Knicks pulled a fast one on all of us by signing Walker after a buyout with the Thunder, and suddenly their other moves this offseason make a whole lot more sense. They addressed their offensive issues with Walker and Fournier, while bringing back the core of the team that surprisingly earned a No. 4 seed last season. The Randle extension seems like fair value for the 26-year-old All-Star, and now the Knicks look even more imposing, with the assets to make a move for a superstar if the opportunity should arise. Grade: A
The Knicks not only knocked FA out of the park but drafted adequately too:
Replacing Reggie Bullock with Fournier and adding Walker to the point guard unit should provide immediate returns. In addition, the Knicks’ rookies also flashed potential during Summer League play, with Miles McBride showcasing his defensive abilities and shooting 50% from three-point range. Quentin Grimes posted 20+ points in the team’s final three Summer League games, showcasing incredible growth and development in such a short period of time.
Overall, the roster seems improved, and as long as they can remain healthy and efficient, making a stronger push during the postseason is entirely possible. It’s nice to finally see the franchise earning some positive reviews after years of malcpractice.