With Arron Afflalo opting out and probably leaving, the New York Knicks need a shooting guard. Could Courtney Lee be a possible fit?
The New York Knicks solved their point guard need by acquiring former NBA MVP Derrick Rose in a trade with the Chicago Bulls, but they still have other needs, particularly at center and shooting guard.They might’ve solved their center needs with another Bulls player in Joakim Noah. The Knicks are currently the favorite for the Noah sweepstakes and it looks like they will reportedly sign him once free agents can be signed starting on Jul. 1.
But what about shooting guard? The Knicks definitely need someone who can play alongside Derrick Rose and provide perimeter shooting after Arron Afflalo opted out and, most likely, will depart.
According to ESPN’s Marc Stein and Ian Begley, the Knicks are interested in free agents Courtney Lee and Eric Gordon.
Both of them are solid options but between the two, Lee would be the better fit and here’s why.
While Gordon provides more upside as a scorer, he has had trouble staying healthy, playing in only 45 games last season while missing extended time with a fractured finger.
So, Lee would be the safer option health wise.
Gordon may be the better scorer, but the Knicks are equipped with plenty of scoring with D-Rose, Carmelo Anthony and Kristaps Porzingis.
Lee would not command the ball all the time and would allow the other three to do their thing offensively. Lee would just operate as a spot up threat from the perimeter and is a good 3-point shooter. He shot 37.8 from downtown last season and is a career 38.4 percent man from three point land. His perimeter shooting will open up space for the others on the floor.
Lee is also a good defender who will guard other tough shooting guards.
He would probably be a cheap option, so it probably won’t hurt the salary cap too much.
The Knicks already made a couple of big splashes this offseason in acquiring D-Rose and probably acquiring Noah.
Lee could be the next option. He would help a lot and fit in the current Knicks squad.
