The Knicks have over $50 million in salary cap room and while that’s more than any other team, it’s looking like New York may be striking out on its top targets already.
Bringing in Chris Paul would be a dream scenario for team president Leon Rose, Marc Berman of The New York Post writes. Rose previously served as Paul’s agent and the two have a good relationship. However, Paul is expected to return to the Suns after he helped lead Phoenix to the NBA Finals.
New York also has eyes for Kyle Lowry, though the Villanova product is reportedly leaning toward signing with the Heat. The franchise could offer the point guard a starting salary in the $39 million range, which is more than he could receive in Miami. Yet, it still appears like New York is behind in the Lowry sweepstakes.
Berman adds that the team has scouted Dennis Schroder heavily this week to be sure he’s a fit for Tom Thibodeau’s system and the Lakers free agent could be the most likely point guard addition during free agency.
More From New York
- Pacers big man Myles Turner is rumored to be available and J. Michael of the Indianapolis Star hears that the Knicks are “trying hard” to land the 25-year-old center. New York exercised Mitchell Robinson‘s $1.8 million contract over the weekend, making him the only center currently signed to the team. Nerlens Noel is a free agent and while the franchise has interest in bringing him back, the former Sixer is garnering interest from other teams, including the Kings (the team also drafted Jericho Sims, who could end up slotting in on a two-way deal, with the No. 58 overall pick).
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The Knicks opted against extending a qualifying offer to Frank Ntilikina, which will make the former No. 8 overall pick an unrestricted free agent. It’s unclear what kind of market the 23-year-old will have, though it would be surprising if he’s back in New York after four uninspiring years in blue and orange.
- The Knicks and Carmelo Anthony could be heading for a reunion, as ESPN’s Jordan Schultz explains (Twitter link). Team president Leon Rose was previously Anthony’s agent and per Schultz, the two still have a great relationship and perhaps with Damian Lillard‘s status uncertain, Anthony will look at teams outside of Portland as he continues his career.
