NBA: Knicks don’t trade picks and stay careful with Porzingis

New York Knicks President Steve Mills believes his team’s reputation has changed over the past year. In addition, the former GM spoke at a fan event on Monday evening about the further plans for Kristaps Porzingis.

“In the circles in which we operate, we see a change in the way we are perceived,” Mills said. “We know that players talk about New York as a place where a lot has changed. If we continue to do the right thing next year, we will be in a good position to attract free agents next year.”

The Knicks will have room for at least one maximum contract next season. Among others, they are said to have turned a blind eye to Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant, Jimmy Butler and Kemba Walker. Even if none of them should get away, however, the Knicks want to stick to a long-term strategy.

“What we won’t take are shortcuts,” Mills said. “We will not trade our draft picks. We want to build this team in the right way. We’re not going to give up assets to get a player we could get as a free agent later.”

Another topic on Monday was Porzingis, who is still busy with rehabilitation after a cruciate ligament rupture. One fan asked if it would be best for the Latvian to suspend the entire 2018/19 season. “We will not do anything to jeopardize KP’s long-term future in any way,” Mills said.

“We’ll run some medical tests this week and then set up a plan for his comeback. But there’s no way we’re rushing things. “There’s no way we want to jeopardize the future of this franchise.”

Meanwhile, Porzzingi’s long-term membership is clear despite his unclear contractual situation. KP could get an early extension for five years and $157 million before the start of the new season, but it is more likely that the salary cap will keep the Knicks waiting until next summer. “KP is committed and we are on a good basis,” Mills said.