One way or another, the New York Knicks will be seeking a point guard to upgrade the position this off-season. With the NBA draft in just three days and free agency starting in August, things are about to get exciting for a team with $50+ million in funds and four draft selections.
However, free agency may offer the team their best vehicle to bolster the unit, despite a recent report indicating the Knicks could wait until the 2022 off-season to spend their ample money. However, with eyes on Bradley Beal and Zach LaVine next year, there’s no guarantee either will be available whether they are traded or signed to a long-term extension.
One option this summer is New Orleans Pelicans point guard Lonzo Ball, who is coming off a solid campaign, averaging 14.6 points, 5.7 assists, 4.8 rebounds, and shot 41% from the field. From downtown, he connected on 37.8% of his shots over 8.3 attempts, the highest of his career. Based on the simple reality that players were elevated by Tom Thibodeau last season, Ball could see a statistics skyrocket in New York, which has to be on the mind of the front office. It has been eerily quiet on the Lonzo Ball front the past few weeks after he was heavily discussed at the trade deadline.
If the Knicks are still intrigued by his services, one veteran could open up the door for his departure from New Orleans.
Ian Begley of SNY stated that the New Orleans Pelicans could be pursuing Kyle Lowry at point guard, which would open up the door for a Lonzo Ball departure:
Regarding the Pelicans, opposing teams expect New Orleans to explore ways to shed salary in pursuit of a veteran. Kyle Lowry is one player on New Orleans’ radar, sources confirm.
If the Pelicans are seeking a veteran PG, Lowry undoubtedly fits the bill. At 34 years old, he averaged 17.2 points, 7.36, and shot 43% from the field over 46 games this past year. He also connected on 40% of his shots from range, averaging 7.2 attempts. Ultimately, Lowry should be a player the Knicks are looking at too, simply based on his historical success and veteran experience. If the Knicks are looking for a younger option, the Pelicans could be gearing up to let Lonzo Ball walk if a big offer sheet is presented.
His current contract would be on the books for $14.3 million on a qualified offer. The former first-round pick hasn’t made the elite impact most believed he would when drafted four years ago, but there’s no question he has untapped potential at 23 years old.
Do you think the Knicks should be considering Ball as a long-term solution at point guard? Comment below!