Donedeal: Knicks Sign NBA’s ‘Premier’ Playmaking PG
The New York Knicks need a talented playmaker to step in behind Jalen Brunson more than anything else. Guard Tyus Jones, a free agent, is a qualified fit.
That’s exactly what Fred Katz of The Athletic said in a post asking free agents to apply for the Knicks’ mid-level exception.
On June 11, Katz noted, “He’s the league’s premier assist-to-turnover guard.” “Could play alongside Brunson in the appropriate lineups, is coming off of his best season ever, and, having played for the Minnesota Timberwolves, would know what to expect from Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau.”
In 66 games this season, Jones averaged 12 points, 7.3 assists, and 1.1 steals for the Washington Wizards.
He might be a key player off the bench for a New York squad that won 50 games this season. He started for a 14–67 team.
In the postseason, with Brunson off the court, New York was outscored by 5.4 points per 100 possessions, according to Cleaning the Glass.
Their average score of 108.4 points puts them in the 14th percentile.
Conversely, the Knicks’ offense produced 121.1 points per game with Brunson on the court, outscoring opponents by 1.5 points per game. For the 86th percentile, that’s good.
The Knicks will need to address playmaking this offseason, whether it means signing a qualified guard like Jones or having Julius Randle play with the second unit.
Jones: Can Knicks Afford Him?
With the exception of midlevel players, Katz’s essay focuses on players that New York might afford this summer. It’s uncertain if Jones belongs in that tier.
Jones has 466 career turnovers to 2,593 assists. He’s also due for a pay raise after finishing his career year with the Wizards. He was paid $29 million over two years for his last deal.
However, Jones might also be too costly, according to Katz. He already exceeds the midlevel exception. A drive to re-sign him is expected because the Wizards decided not to move him before the deadline. Washington can afford to keep the player, doesn’t want to lose him for free, and isn’t focused on winning tonight.
Jones is a free agent without restrictions. Washington’s goals therefore won’t restrict him in the way that would otherwise be the case.
Ultimately, it will come down to his tastes. What kind of work, pay, and living arrangement he is seeking. With a multi-year contract and a backup position to one of the NBA’s top point guards in its largest market, New York can provide him with stability.
Kyle Lowry is another option listed by Katz.
There are several point guards besides Jones that might potentially sign with the Knicks as a midlevel exception.
Katz continued by suggesting future Hall of Famer Kyle Lowry.
After completing his 18th NBA season, Lowry, 38, is aiming for his second career title. Before he signed a midseason contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, Katz claims that New York was considering a trade for the veteran.
Katz stated, “According to league sources, Lowry was on the Knicks’ list following a buyout with the Charlotte Hornets last winter.” Even yet, he ultimately signed a contract with the 76ers.
The 38-year-old and Brunson share a common trait in that they both excel at drawing charges on the defensive end of the court.
“Lowry can’t run an offense like he used to, but he plays an aggressive style that would fit in well with New York’s defensive identity,” says Katz. “Although he will never stop taking charge, he is 38 years old and won’t get any better with another season.”
With 35 charges drew during the regular season, Brunson was second only to rookie Brandon Podziemski of the Golden State Warriors. With six, he lead the playoffs.
Lowry had 19 charges drawn by the end of the regular season. His tough defense would suit well in with this scrappy Knicks team.
Lowry is a University of Villanova product, just like Josh Hart, Donte DiVincenzo, and all of Brunson. It seems appropriate for year 19 to be a member of a championship-aspiring team alongside some fellow grads.
