Three Backup Power Forwards the Knicks Could Still Go After in Free Agency
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The Knicks traded Obi Toppin earlier this offseason and have yet to find an adequate replacement. Julius Randle is now the only power forward on the roster, and it seems like the Knicks still need to make one more move before the end of the season. There are reports that Josh Hart could step in as the backup power forward, but the Knicks will need size at that position depending on the matchup. Here are three potential power forwards the Knicks could go after.
JaMychal Green:
JaMychal Green is the epitome of a player who knows his role and can perform his role perfectly. Green knows he will never be the primary scorer on the court, but he is a very solid defender and has a very high basketball IQ. Green is an underrated passer and can fit into virtually any system. Green has been in the league since 2014 and could be a vet presence that the Knicks need. Julius Randle will likely be getting close to 40 minutes a game, so all Green would have to do in his role is play roughly 10-12 minutes a game, just like Obi Toppin.
Kelly Oubre Jr:
Even though Kelly Oubre is a very talented offensive player, he is surprisingly still a free agent. Some of that comes down to his struggles on the defensive end and his inability to stay consistent. That said, he can still play a valuable role as a bench player on any team. If Oubre’s value is low enough to where he will sign the minimum, the Knicks shouldn’t hesitate to offer him that contract to play off the bench.
PJ Washington:
Just like Oubre, PJ Washington is another free agent who was on the Charlotte Hornets last season. Washington is certainly one of the best free agents still remaining, if not the best. Signing Washington becomes more of a challenge, however, as he is a restricted free agent. The Hornets can match any offer the Knicks make, and they likely will since the Knicks don’t have too much salary left. That said, the Knicks should still consider offering him a contract because he would be a great scorer off the bench and an improvement over Obi Toppin.