The New York Knicks are interested in signing Courtney Lee, league sources inform Thomas Dee of SNYtv:
I’ve been asked a ton about SG options for the #Knicks. Sources tell me Courtney Lee is on top of their list.
— Tommy Dee (@ThomasCDee) June 29, 2016
Courtney Lee is expected to have several interested suitors outside of New York. Lee, who averaged 9.6 points per game with both Memphis and Charlotte this season, is expected to receive a deal in the $11-14M range this offseason. Outside of New York and Memphis, the Sacramento Kings also plan on pursuing Lee.
The Knicks, who hope to meet with Kevin Durant this summer, are prioritizing the center position this offseason. However, they also plan on filling in the hole at Shooting Guard left by Arron Afflalo when he opted out last week.
“The two-guard spot (is) probably (where) we should be able to find someone”, head coach Jeff Hornacek said. We need a guy at the two spot who can help run the offense. Maybe get some kickout 3’s. We don’t necessarily need a two-man who can create a bunch of plays. Because we should have guys who are able to do that. So if you look at it that way, maybe the center might be a little bit more important now”.
The Knicks are eyeing Joakim Noah, Pau Gasol, and Dwight Howard as potential frontcourt signings. Along with Courtney Lee, New York is eyeing Jamal Crawford, Kent Bazemore, and Gerald Green.
Lee, perhaps the most intriguing (and financially available) shooting guard for the Knicks, will receive a greater deal of interest from the team if Kevin Durant re-signs with Oklahoma City, sources told Thomas Dee:
If Durant stays in OKC, which seems most likely, expect the #Knicks to aggressively move to pursue Noah and Lee, per sources.
— Tommy Dee (@ThomasCDee) June 29, 2016
Courtney Lee was selected with the 22nd pick by Orlando in the 2008 NBA Draft.
