As the NBA season idly waits for the end of the coronavirus pandemic, the New York Knicks are likely enjoying their time away from losing consistently and spiraling toward another disappointing season. However, there are some positives to extract from the 2019-20 campaign, such as RJ Barrett, who looked the part as a rookie and portrayed the skill-set the Knicks fell in love with before the draft.
Other positives can be located in the form of Mitchell Robinson and trading Marcus Morris for draft capital and Moe Harkless. The negatives, though, appear in the form of Dennis Smith Jr., the firing of David Fizdale, Julius Randle’s desire to hold onto the ball for ample amounts of time, and much more.
Adding a big-name free agent next offseason is essential, reinforcing Barrett’s progression and development.
Here are three names the New York Knicks could pursue:
1.) Anthony Davis
Davis is expected to opt-out of his contract, which opens up the opportunity for the Knicks to land one of the best players in the league. The big issue is actually the Knicks, as they’re not the most desirable team to play for with the transition of Leon Rose into the GM position and the head coaching spot in a state of flux. Davis would bring success and proven abilities to New York, though, making him the most desirable free agent. Davis has a player option after the conclusions of this season.
2.) Gordon Hayward
Hayward hasn’t been the same since breaking his leg in his first year with Boston, but he has shown flashes of revival. Hayward will likely be on the move, but his injury is still a concern for teams willing to spend big money on a free agent signing. Gordon has a player option for the 2020-21 season.
3.) Brandon Ingram
Ingram is a restricted free agent, which means New Orleans can match any offer for the All-Star. As one of the rising players in the NBA and a fantastic partner to Zion Williams, the Pelicans won’t let him go without a fight. The Knicks could be intrigued enough to offer him a bloated contract to keep New Orleans at bay, but it will take a lot