The New York Knicks have the luxury of creating plenty of flexibility regarding salary space to sign free agents if that is what they desire. This upcoming class could end up being fantastic, but depending on what Kawhi Leonard and Chris Paul do with their player options, it could also end up being disappointing.
That is why a rumor is circulating that the front office is considering waiting until the 2022 off-season to allocate their available funds. However, they will have the most cap space this off-season out of any team, which should suggest they add a few quality players to help make a positive step forward after earning a postseason appearance during the 2020-21 season.
SNY’s Ian Begley reported Monday the Knicks could shift to a patient approach to add a big name in 2022:
“As recently as last month, a source said the Knicks have talked internally about the possibility of holding enough cap space this summer for 2022 and keeping enough money around to be able to go after a max player in that 2022 class, which should include Zach LaVine and Bradley Beal.”
Theoretically, this is a good idea for those that can remain patient. However, the Knicks are coming off their first playoff series in quite some time, and if they fail to take another step, the front office could regret sitting still and failing to add more talent. Realistically, based on the actions the front office has executed in the past, taking a more patient approach and thinking long-term is likely in the best interest of the team but certainly would hurt fans who are seeking instant gratification.
There is a reason to believe they can draft a few impact players and continue to grow RJ Barrett and last year’s rookies, Immanuel Quickley and Obi Toppin.
Best case scenario, their young players become even more influential, creating hype around a big name joining the Knicks, especially with Zach LaVine and Bradley Beal hitting the open market in 2022.
Do you agree with the idea of waiting until 2022 and targeting big names? Comment below!Â