New York Knicks: 3 takeaways from 2019 NBA offseason

1. Maintained financial flexibility

One of the biggest NBA storylines entering 2019 free agency was the New York Knicks’ ability to sign two max free agents such as Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. That, of course, didn’t happen, and the Knicks were forced to spend their money elsewhere.

Although the Knicks missed out on superstar talent, the front office didn’t botch future offseasons with long-term deals.

Reggie Bullock, Wayne Ellington, Taj Gibson, Elfrid Payton and Bobby Portis each signed a two-year deal with a team option for the second year. Julius Randle’s contract has a team option in his third season, while Morris only signed a one-year contract.

This gives the Knicks flexibility entering not only 2020 free agency but also the superstar-riddled 2021 free agency. Whether or not the Knicks opt to take a shot at a star again, the opportunity will be available.

There’s still a lot of time before this happens, so Knicks fans shouldn’t get their hopes up just yet. It’s possible that the current core, including Randle and Portis, will take significant strides in development and a free agency signing will not necessarily be needed.

Despite the hate surrounding the Knicks’ offseason moves, the front office is working on building a winning culture through the young core and veteran talent rather than attempting to jump from bottom feeders to championship contenders in one offseason.