Knicks Opted Out of Kawhi Leonard Sweepstakes as Decision Looms

Once Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving were snatched off the market by their across-town rivals, the Brooklyn Nets, the New York Knicks simply folded.

After taking two big Ls in the early minutes of free agency, the New York Knicks figured it best to give up on the Kawhi Leonard sweepstakes in order to focus on other free agents. Leonard was not willing to meet with the Knicks until Wednesday, prioritizing meeting with the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers. With the torrid pace of free agency, the Knicks decided to not take any further risks and pick up a a few blue-collared role players instead to fill out their roster.

A CP24 news helicopter following two black SUVs. One of which believed to contain Kawhi. pic.twitter.com/dE6qn3NBv3

— Rob Gillies (@rgilliescanada) July 3, 2019

That being said, this was yet another huge letdown for the marque NBA franchise as the Knicks have repeatedly failed to attract big-name free agents to the Mecca. Team owner James Dolan has received the majority of the criticism due to his persistent role in basketball operations as well as the culture he has created around his organization.

The Knicks have since signed Wayne Ellington, Julius Randle, Taj Gibson, Elfrid Payton, and Bobby Portis. Currently at 14 players, Lance Thomas is assumed to be the favourite to fill the team’s final roster spot.

Is this Kawhi landing in Toronto? 🕵️‍♂️

(via @CP24)pic.twitter.com/D4n5r4Uw7s

— Yahoo Sports NBA (@YahooSportsNBA) July 3, 2019

Meanwhile, Leonard has completed all of his meetings and is currently pondering a decision. Leonard reportedly met with the Raptors in Toronto yesterday after CP24 surveillance video tracked the superstar from the airport all the way to the freeway.

What can be said other than Happy 4th of Kawhi!