New York Knicks: Playing keep or discard with team options

Options to keep

In an otherwise very poor season for the team, there have been a few bright spots. Some players have played on an adequate level to have earned themselves a spot on next year’s roster, or at least deserve a second chance.

The players classified in this category are Elfrid Payton and Reggie Bullock. These two have not been special in any way, but no one can deny the fact that they shine above the rest of the bunch that will be mentioned further down this article.

Payton has semi-successfully filled the starting point guard spot this season for the Knicks, starting in more than half of the games the team has played so far. During a five-week span where Payton was out with an injury, the Knicks were 3-14 in those games, ultimately leading to the firing of David Fizdale.

He has been Mike Miller’s go-to guy to handle the ball since the latter stages of December and is performing much better than when he played under Fizdale. Elfrid has established himself as a top-tier passer in the league and is now 12th in the NBA in assists per game.

Since being the established starter, Payton has been averaging 10.1 points and 7.5 assists per game, though his 3-point shot needs work. Regardless, Payton leads the team in assists and steals per game and his presence is known game in game out.

Bullock also missed a huge portion to start the season, making his debut on the first of January. Despite currently being on a dry spell, he has proven to be a very valuable part of the rotation, whether he is being used as a starter or as a substitute.

Most people would be thinking, what’s so special with Bullock that the Knicks can’t find anywhere else in free agency? Well, the difference is, Bullock is set to receive just $4.2 million for next season were the Knicks to pick up his option. In today’s NBA, that’s a huge steal for a 3-and-D wing.

In the upcoming draft, the Knicks will most likely select a guard with their lottery pick. Guys like Payton and Bullock can ensure that the said player transitions smoothly from college ball to the big league.