Philadelphia 76ers: A trade proposition for the New York Knicks
By Simon Smith
Knicks outlook
Due to the absence of All-Star Kristaps Porzingis, presumably out until at the least the new year as he rehabilitates from his ACL injury, the Knicks will not be widely expected to finish near the top of the standings.
In addition to No. 7 overall pick Kevin Knox, the Knicks have also brought aboard former No. 5 overall pick Mario Hezonja, a swingman with considerable upside. Furthermore, with second-year guard Frank Ntilikina, and another pair of former lottery picks in Emmanuel Mudiay and Noah Vonleh, the Knicks certainly have a bevy of young talent at their disposal.
However, the Knicks also have their eyes fixed on next summer, when a loaded free agent class hits the market. So while they will be looking to establish a new identity this season, next summer is when things start to get serious.
Of course, one of the best ways to join the free agency chase this will be via salary cap space. Presently, the Knicks have $72 million on the books for the 2019-20 season. So while they currently have some space to be a major player in free agency, further moves in which salary can be shed will only further boost their chances next summer.