The news broke today that Phil Jackson and the New York Knicks will be parting ways, so it seems like a perfect time to see what free agents the Knicks have going into this off-season. I will not be including Carmelo Anthony on this list, however, it should be known that the organization may buy out his contract and if that were to happen, Melo is interested in joining CP3 and James Harden in Houston. For this list, there won’t be much predicting on whether or not any of these players will be resigned as it will all depend on who takes over basketball operations for the Knicks.
Derrick Rose (PG) – Unrestricted
NY Daily News
Derrick Rose joined the Knicks in hopes of starting ihis comeback to greatness. Rose, a former MVP, will head into this offseason after a so-so year. Over 64 games played he averaged 18 points, 4.4 assists, 3.8 rebounds while averaging 32.5 minutes per game. These numbers are very comparable to his career averages and shows that he could play at a high level even after multiple injuries. Rose may have to look to take a seat on the bench, however, if he would like to test the waters in free-agency.
Justin Holiday (SG) – Unrestricted
Newsday
Justin Holiday joined the Knicks as a part of the trade that sent Derrick Rose to New York. Holiday had an excellent season from a statistical perspective as he averaged 7.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game over an average of 20 minutes. All of these numbers are above his career numbers, which helps to show that even at 28 he is improving and could be a solid role player on the Knicks or another team.
Sasha Vujacic (SG) – Unrestricted
Hoops Rumors
Sasha left Europe in 2015 to join the Knicks franchise and has thrived ever since. The Yugoslavian shooting guard has shown that he can provide a spark off the bench by averaging 3.0 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in only an average of 9.7 minutes per game. Sasha could be a cheap option for any team looking to add depth to the guard position.
Ron Baker (SG) – Restricted
Hoops Habit
Ron Baker heads into this off-season as the Knicks only RFA. Baker joined the Knicks on their summer league team and showed enough to secure a contract and be on the roster opening night. Baker hasn’t showed a whole lot in his first year on the team averaging only 4.1 points, 2.1 assists, and 1.9 rebounds over an average of 16.5 minutes per game. The market for the 24-year-old shooting guard appears unclear, but he should be able to find a home anywhere.
Only time will tell what happens with the garbage fire that is the current New York Knicks organization but I will be there to write up and report it to you. Hopefully one of the cornerstones of the NBA will be able to right the ship and head in the right direction.
