NBA Free Agency 2017: 5 offseason needs for the New York Knicks

Apr 2, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) drives against Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 2, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) drives against Boston Celtics center Al Horford (42) during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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2. Draft a point guard

With Derrick Rose set to become a free agent, the Knicks will have a major void to fill at point guard. Although Rose was productive for the Knicks, averaging 18 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game, he is reportedly wanting a max contract which the Knicks shouldn’t give him.

Rose’s injury history makes it very risky, and with the Knicks projected to have a a top seven pick in the upcoming NBA draft, they could draft a point guard instead. Fortunately for New York, this upcoming draft class will feature tantalizing talent at the point guard position, and they can potentially find their floor general of the future.

Although Markelle Fultz and Lonzo Ball will likely be off the board when the Knicks pick, there will still be great point guards for them to choose from. De’Aaron Fox, Dennis Smith Jr, and Frank Ntilikina could all be available when New York is on the clock.

Each one of those prospects would bring playmaking ability, athleticism, and youth to a team that is in dire need of all three. With the Knicks missing the playoffs so often, starting a total rebuild might not be the worst idea.

There’s no better way to start a rebuild then by drafting a floor general to pair with a talented big man like Porzingis. Another alternative would be free agency of course, as guards like George Hill, Jeff Teague, and Jrue Holiday will also be hitting the market. All three players will be commanding a big pay day, so drafting a rookie would be more cost effective, and it will allow them to address other position needs.