The New York Knicks need talent wherever they can get it, especially with injuries plaguing the team at the moment. However, there is a free agent target they could look to as a potential solution in 2021.
While he’s not a well-known player yet, former second-round pick Talen Horton-Tucker has made tremendous progress with the Los Angeles Lakers. As the 46th pick in 2019, he doesn’t have a guaranteed contract just yet with Los Angeles, and with the Lakers’ deep rotation at guard, they might have no choice but to let Horton-Tucker walk this upcoming off-season.
One team that should 100% be in on him are the Knicks, who have inconsistent youth and several veterans trying to find their spot on the team.
Horton-Tucker has only played in 10 games this year, averaging 8.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. However, he hasn’t disappointed while on the floor, seeing improvement as a shooter and solid vision on the court.
According to Sean Deveney of Heavy.com, the Mavericks, Knicks and Cavaliers could all target Horton-Tucker.
“League sources told Heavy.com Horton-Tucker can expect ‘multiple teams’ to have an interest in pursuing him this summer,†Deveney wrote. “That would put pressure on the Lakers to match some offers that could, potentially, be very hefty. The Knicks, Cavaliers and Mavericks were listed as teams with potential interest.â€
Considering he’s learning under LeBron James, Talen has the potential to be a fantastic player in the future. Over a four-game stretch, he averaged 20+ points at one point this season, and as a mature player with smart basketball knowledge, he would fit like a glove in New York.
The expectation is that Horton-Tucker could earn in the $10 million range, and considering the Knicks desperately need more adequate shooters, he could fit the bill well. He has a .484 field goal percentage this year and is shooting .364 from downtown. While he’s only connected on 10 of 22 from three, he’s also an aggressive defensive player, which is exactly what head coach Tom Thibodeau is looking for.