New York Knicks owner James Dolan has privately signaled that he wants to steer clear of the NBA’s second tax apron, a stance that league observers view as unusual for a club coming off a title run, The Athletic reports.
New York could face a crunch this offseason, with six members of its championship roster headed for free agency: Mitchell Robinson, Landry Shamet, Jordan Clarkson, Ariel Hukporti, Mohamed Diawara and Jeremy Sochan. Analyst James L. Edwards III expects Diawara to re-sign after a strong rookie campaign, but the outlook for Robinson and Shamet—considered the Knicks’ two marquee free agents—remains uncertain.
Guard Jose Alvarado holds a $4.5 million player option for next season. If he opts in, the Knicks’ payroll would tighten further; Edwards suggests the New York native may instead decline the option and negotiate a multi-year agreement that starts at a lower annual salary. Dolan’s directive indicates that at least one of Robinson or Shamet could depart unless another guaranteed contract is moved or ownership softens its position on the second apron.
Celtics debate Giannis pursuit
The Boston Celtics are widely linked to Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, but The Athletic’s Jay King writes that the front office must decide whether such a dramatic shift is prudent. Jaylen Brown, fresh off his best season and still under 30, represents a valuable asset; shipping him out for a veteran in his 30s carries risk. Conversely, dealing Brown now could be viewed as selling high following his second All-NBA honor. Boston would also need to assess how much it values emerging talent like Hugo Gonzalez, whose long-term upside contrasts with Antetokounmpo’s immediate impact.
Sixers stay committed to Embiid
The Philadelphia 76ers are unlikely to trade Joel Embiid anytime soon because of his contract and injury history, according to a mailbag by Gina Mizell of The Philadelphia Inquirer. Team and player believe they have a workable plan to manage the center’s chronic knee issues. One possibility, Mizell notes, is pairing Embiid with another big—potentially rookie Adem Bona—to reduce his physical burden, similar to lineup strategies used in San Antonio last season.
Spotrac’s Keith Smith adds that Embiid looked nearly as dominant offensively when healthy, while Paul George delivered productive stretches after returning from suspension. Philadelphia’s avenues to upgrade depth are limited, however; Smith projects the club will exercise three team options, retain either Kelly Oubre Jr. or Quentin Grimes, and round out the roster with veteran-minimum contracts.
Source: Hoops Rumors
