The New York Knicks are reportedly “unlikely” to pick up the $ 15.75 million team option in the Bobby Portis power forward contract for the NBA 2020-21 season.
SNY’s Ian Begley reported the update on Friday.
Portis signed with the Knicks in July. His numbers have dropped from the previous two years with the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards due to a crowded frontcourt rotation led by Julius Randle, Marcus Morris and Mitchell Robinson.
The 25-year-old University of Arkansas averaged 10.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists as he fired 45 percent from the field in 66 appearances before the NBA game was stopped on March 11 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
If the Knicks refuse the option and allow him to become a free agent without restrictions, he should generate a solid interest such as stretching by 4 depths.
In the meantime, New York will likely use the additional flexibility of the hood to increase the amount of wing and backcourt scores around the new cornerstone of the RJ Barrett franchise.