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NBA free agency officially kicked off at midnight, EST, on July 1. Some players signed, I guess — they aren’t Knicks, so who cares? The real story of free agency is ongoing pursuit of Mario Hezonja.
The New York Knicks have interest in unrestricted free agent Mario Hezonja, league sources told The Athletic. Knicks general manager Scott Perry was in Orlando when the Magic selected Hezonja fifth overall in 2015.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) July 1, 2018
Oh, I’m all the way here for this. Hezonja averaged 9.6 points on 44.2% shooting (33.7 3P%) last season as a 22-year-old with the Orlando Magic. He’s a big wing who can play the 2, 3 or 4. sling a highlight-reel pass, and drain triples with a buttery, albeit unproven shooting stroke. He also (allegedly) thinks he’s the greatest player in the history of the world.
With Hezonja in the fold, Knicks fans could be treated to plenty of plays like these.
Alas, you’ll also get plays like this.
Seriously, how can you watch that travesty of a fast break and tell me this dude is destined to be anything else but a Knick? I haven’t seen a player Knick a fast break that hard since prime J.R. Smith.
The Knicks aren’t the only team interested in Hezonja, however. The Sacramento Kings are said to have interest.
As free agency opens, there is mutual interest between Mario Hezonja and the Knicks, sources say. Hezonja has multiple suitors and the Knicks are looking to offer short-term contracts to maintain cap space for 2019. Sacramento also has interest in Hezonja.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) July 1, 2018
Here’s hoping Scott Perry, who was in the Orlando organization when Hezonja was drafted No. 5 overall, can convince Super Mario to sign for one year.