New York Knicks: More draft picks and less free agency

Mar 24, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard De'Aaron Fox (0) looks to pass the ball against UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) in the second half during the semifinals of the South Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 24, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard De'Aaron Fox (0) looks to pass the ball against UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) in the second half during the semifinals of the South Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports /
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New York Knicks
Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Don’t let history repeat

It would be a mistake for Phil Jackson to overspend on free agents this offseason. With no ability to sign a max player, it would be more beneficial to stay conservative this free agency period. By leaving the Knicks with cap room, they will be more flexible at the trade deadline and not married to aging stars.

What the Knicks need is multiple first round draft picks in this draft and in 2018. Winning promotes healing in both the front office and in the stands of Madison Square Garden. If they can rein in Kristaps Porzingis and move Carmelo Anthony, the bleeding will stop.

New York Knicks
Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /

Yet, if management repeats the free agency mistakes of the past the wound will be fresh once again. Teams like the Warriors, Spurs and even the 76ers have shown how smart drafting and multiple picks can change the future. Yet, the Mavericks continually focus on luring free agents and are in a perpetual spiral in the Western Conference.

Next: 5 potential landing spots for Gordon Hayward in free agency

These next two drafts will be full of talent and opportunity. Talent automatically gives the Knicks more than what they have had the last few years. If the New York Knicks want to build a winning team, draft picks are much more important than free agency.