Knicks Decline To Offer Iman Shumpert A Contract Extension

The New York Knicks decided not to offer guard Iman Shumpert a contract extension, meaning he’ll be a restricted free agent in the 2015 NBA offseason

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Although nine players received contract extensions before Friday’s deadline imposed by the NBA, New York Knicks’ guard Iman Shumpert was not one of them.

“The New York Knicks have declined to pick up point guard Shane Larkin’s third-year option,” explained Ian Begley of ESPN New York. “They’ve also decided against offering Iman Shumpert a contract extension. Both moves are yet another indication that the organization hopes to add significant talent in free agency this summer.”

The move is clearly a bit of a risk because they could wind losing both Iman Shumpert and Shane Larkin.

“Deciding against extending Shumpert and declining Larkin’s option are both risks,” wrote Begley. “Larkin and Shumpert could have strong seasons and end up signing with other teams in free agency.”

However, if Iman Shumpert is injured or disappoints like he did last season, the Knicks wouldn’t have to worry about being stuck with a bad contract. Same with Shane Larkin, who had a disappointing rookie season. Plus, even more importantly, they will keep flexibility for free agent in 2015 and potentially 2016. They are expected to pursue Memphis Grizzlies‘ center Marc Gasol next summer.

Iman Shumpert put up 6.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.2 steals per game while shooting 37.8% from the field, 33.3% from beyond the arc and 74.6% from the free throw line last season. Iman Shumpert has averaged 7.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.3 steals per game while shooting 39.1% from the floor, 34.2% from three and 77.5% from beyond the arc in his three-year career.

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