NBA Free Agency 2018: One signing every team should make

CLEVELAND, OH - JUNE 08: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts against the Golden State Warriors during Game Four of the 2018 NBA Finals at Quicken Loans Arena on June 8, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

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PORTLAND, OR – APRIL 1: Shabazz Napier #6 of the Portland Trail Blazers shoots the ball against the Memphis Grizzlies on April 1, 2018 at the Moda Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Cameron Browne/NBAE via Getty Images) /

New York Knicks — Shabazz Napier

The Knicks seem content, at least for now, to let Frank Ntilikina be a wing as much as he is a point guard. They also aren’t in a rush to win in David Fizdale’s first season — especially with Kristaps Porzingis coming off an ACL tear and having drafted Kevin Knox, one of the most raw players in the 2018 NBA Draft.

Over time, maybe Ntilikina becomes the lead guard on the team. But for now, the Knicks would seem to need a guard who can both play alongside Ntilikina while also soaking up some of the playmaking duties. Shabazz Napier, who was the third guard for the Blazers last year alongside C.J. McCollum and Damian Lillard, fits that bill.

Napier is 26, so it’s possible he could still be good and kept around as a backup in a few years if/when Ntilikina develops. For next season, he could start at point guard with Ntilikina at shooting guard, but shift off ball at times to give Ntilikina reps. It’s a role Napier should be comfortable with. He shot 38 percent on 3-pointers last year and helped space the floor for Lillard and McCollum. Napier’s role with the Knicks could look very similar, if slightly larger.

He is a restricted free agent, so it’s possible Portland retains him. But they are in a tough financial position and aren’t a guarantee to be quite as good next season. A big enough offer, perhaps one that is player friendly and includes options, could get Napier to New York.

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