Knicks' Top Needs in 2023 NBA Offseason
The New York Knicks feel like they could go a number of different directions during the 2023 NBA offseason.
They still have one of the more impressive asset collections around, so a blockbuster acquisition could be on the table. They also flashed enough flaws during the postseason to wonder whether they'd trade away a core player.
With so much theoretically in play, it's hard to say exactly what the Knicks will chase this summer. Still, the following three things should be offseason priorities.
Spacing
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Technically, the Knicks fielded a good offense this season. They limited turnovers, controlled the offensive glass and earned a ton of trips to the free-throw line.
But they couldn't shoot. From anywhere. Collectively, they ranked 20th in field-goal percentage, 19th in three-point shooting and 22nd at the foul line.
Those shooting woes eventually became fatal flaws in the playoffs. They not only failed to capitalize on their opportunities, their inability to do so allowed opponents to pack the paint and make life more difficult for their scorers.
This can't happen again. They have to find more spacers. Specialists won't cut it, though. If the Knicks wanted a one-trick shooter, they wouldn't have pulled Evan Fournier from the rotation. But if a player has a jump shot and brings more dimensions to the hardwood, that's someone this squad needs to look at closely.
Star Power
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This roster is close to a major breakthrough.
The Knicks essentially have two All-Stars already in Julius Randle (a two-time selection) and Jalen Brunson (had All-Star-caliber numbers). They could spawn a third if RJ Barrett ever uncovers his key to a leap year.
Behind that trio, they have depth at every spot, and even a few wild cards such as Obi Toppin, the No. 8 pick of the 2020 draft who might break out the second he snags a substantial role.
They don't have a top-tier superstar, though, and it's awfully hard to win without one. But they might have the resources needed to land one, it's just a matter of pouncing on the right player.
Sure, they could cash in their best draft picks and prospects for Karl-Anthony Towns or Damian Lillard, but would that push them toward the front of the championship race? Probably not. They should be cautious about going all-in too soon, though they should be ready to pounce in case someone like Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown or even Luka Dončić suddenly shakes loose.
A New Contract for Josh Hart
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From the moment Josh Hart landed in New York at the trade deadline, he looked like a long-term keeper.
His low-maintenance game was an easy fit. His perpetually high energy level was contagious. His versatility helped him summon whatever the team needed any given night. Even his three-ball initially heated up to an absurd (and unsustainable) temperature.
Two things became immediately clear. First, he could do better on the open market than the $13 million player option he holds for next season, per Spotrac. Second, the Knicks would be foolish not to cover the cost of his next contract.
They need everything he brings. Sure, he could up the aggressiveness and accuracy of his outside shot, but that's as far as the nitpicking can go. He's a need-filler who can shape-shift to accommodate any number of needs. Those are the types of role players every winning team has to have.
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