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3 superstar free agents Knicks can acquire and how

By Rucker Haringey

TAMPA, FLORIDA - MAY 11: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clipperslooks to pass during a game against the Toronto Raptors at Amalie Arena on May 11, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) 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.
TAMPA, FLORIDA - MAY 11: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clipperslooks to pass during a game against the Toronto Raptors at Amalie Arena on May 11, 2021 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) 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. /
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Knicks free agency, Kawhi Leonard
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 09: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Los Angeles Clippers reacts to a play during the fourth quarter against the Houston Rockets at Staples Center on April 09, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) /

2. Kawhi Leonard

With all due respect to Barrett and Reggie Bullock, it’s clear the Knicks could benefit from a big upgrade on the wing next season. Prying Leonard away from the Clippers would achieve that in a big way.

The All-NBA performer has a player option in his current deal that gives him an avenue to leave Los Angeles if he’s so inclined this offseason. Conventional wisdom believes that a deep playoff run will be enough to keep him in the City of Angels, but trying to predict Leonard’s behavior has flummoxed front office executives in the past.

The Knicks should be willing to make him the most lucrative contract offer possible if he does elect to reenter free agency. He’s an exceptional two-way wing who can lock down elite offensive players with his physical defense. Combine that with his uncanny ability to score the ball efficiently from all over the floor and it’s easy to understand why he’d appeal to Thibodeau and his staff.

The real question the Knicks would need to answer with Leonard is whether or not they’re really ready to make a championship run. Adding Leonard would push them towards the top of the Eastern Conference standings, but it might not be enough to catch the likes of Brooklyn and Milwaukee. It will be up to New York’s front office to convince Leonard he’s the guy who can take their team all the way to the top.

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