The New York Knicks have come to terms on a one-year, $6.5 million deal with free agent Mario Hezonja, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports.
Let's CORRECT that: NEW YORK has agreed to a deal with Hezonja, league source tells ESPN. https://t.co/h3Gz5HOca1
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2018
Hezonja and the Knicks began negotiating a contract at free agency’s start, with New York offering the 22-year-old a one-year deal. Hezonja looked elsewhere and began registering interest from several teams, including Sacramento, Portland and Memphis, according to ESPN.com.
Hezonja was ultimately drawn to Knicks coach David Fizdale and settled for an agreement on Sunday night. He posted the following to social media after news of his decision broke: “Start spreading the news…I want to be a part of it, New York,New York! Very excited to be joining the Knicks and play for coach Fizdale! A dream come true!”
Hezonja appeared in 75 games with the Magic this past season, holding per-game averages of 9.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 22.1 minutes. He shot 44 percent from the field and 34 percent from 3-point range.
Hezonja was drafted by Orlando with the No. 5 overall pick back in 2015. Born in Croatia, he spent time with FC Barcelona in the years leading up to the draft. The Knicks believe he fits into their long-term plans of rebuilding into a contender.
