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2019 NBA free agency: Ranking Kawhi Leonard’s best potential landing spots

By Daniel Lubofsky

TORONTO, ONTARIO - JUNE 10: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors reacts in the first half against the Golden State Warriors during Game Five of the 2019 NBA Finals at Scotiabank Arena on June 10, 2019 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ONTARIO - JUNE 10: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors reacts in the first half against the Golden State Warriors during Game Five of the 2019 NBA Finals at Scotiabank Arena on June 10, 2019 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)
(Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /

4. New York Knicks

While Dallas may be flying under the radar as a potential free agency destination, the New York Knicks have been loud and proud with their intended superstar pursuit. After dumping salary in the KP deal, they now have plenty of salary flexibility to work with and won’t be shy when it comes time to recruit.

As one of the youngest teams in the league last season, the Knicks don’t have many tangible players on the roster capable of contributing at this moment. Mitchell Robinson and company have all shown potential at one point or another, but not enough that suggest they’re ready to compete for a title.

This is where that precious money comes into play. With over $70 million to spend, New York can present Kawhi with the opportunity to bring whomever he wants with him to the Big Apple. Whether it’s Kyrie Irving or maybe even Kevin Durant, his supporting cast won’t be barren of talent.

His legacy took a massive step forward in leading Toronto to its first ever title. What could be better? How about leading a historic Knicks franchise to its first championship since way back in 1973?

Having recently signed a shoe contract with New Balance, the media market that is New York could serve him well in elevating his brand (If he even cares). The Eastern Conference saw improvements at the top, but as a whole, it drags behind its Western counterpart, which could entice Kawhi with an easier path to the Finals.

Leonard isn’t one for the attention that comes with NBA superstardom. If he’s looking to take his legacy to even greater heights both on and off the court, however, Madison Square Garden may be the best place to accomplish those lofty goals.