5. Kadeem Allen is this year’s Allonzo Trier
Last year, Allonzo Trier went undrafted after declaring for the 2018 NBA Draft. He quickly agreed to a two-way deal with the New York Knicks as an undrafted free agent. Immediately, he showed the teams that passed on him they made a mistake.
Trier was a standout performer in Summer League and worked his way onto the team’s regular season roster. He quickly reached the games played limit to earn himself a two-year deal, and Kadeem Allen will be on a similar path this season.
Allen was picked up by the Knicks on a two-way deal on Jan. 19, 2019 after Trier’s expired. He would go on to play in 18 games with the team. He showed well during those opportunities and carried it over to Summer League.
When Allen was on the court, the team was run so much smoother. He was able to get everyone into place offensively running the show. He showcased a nice mid-range jumper to go along with great playmaking, averaging 4.5 assists to only one turnover per game.
The Knicks have Dennis Smith Jr. and added Elfrid Payton in free agency at point guard, but Allen is a favorite of David Fizdale, and with good reason. He should find his way onto the regular season roster once again, providing quality depth at both guard spots.