Michael Kidd-Gilchrist could become a player of the Knicks

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist appears to be the most likely roleplaying player who can take full advantage of his ties to the CAA to return close to home to play for the Knicks. MKG’s closest family friend is William “Worldwide Wes” Wesley, longtime consultant and confidant of Leon Rose’s CAA. Just like Rose & Worldwide Wes, MKG grew up in South Jersey. Coincidentally, MKG’s cousin is Dajuan Wagner, a Camden native and one of Leon Rose’s first clients.

MKG initially signed with CAA’s Rich Paul prior to the 2012 NBA Draft. Once Rich Paul left CAA in 2012, MKG was stuck with the agency, particularly due to his long relationship with Worldwide Wes.

Various injuries slowed MKG down during his rookie contract with the Charlotte Hornets. When he was able to play, he proved to be an annoying defender, although his offensive prowess never reached the speed of the NBA. His defensive versatility allowed him to protect primary markers at ease. However, his offensive limits and ascension quickly shifted MKG from rotation forever. The Hornets bought it in February and MKG later signed with the Dallas Mavericks.

Kidd-Gilchrist will emerge from a contract in which he made $ 52 million in four seasons. It will certainly come at a discounted value and could be an interesting flyer as a remediation project of any kind. The Knicks have always had problems on the defensive end, so MKG can help fill those deficiencies, even if its offensive limits are obvious. Maybe a homecoming is all he needs.