Many New York Knicks fans viewed the hiring of Leon Rose as the team’s president of basketball operations as a big deal for a franchise that is badly craving for winning. And why not? Before he accepted the post as the Knicks’ front-office decision-maker, Rose was an influential players’ agent with a list of high profile clients that includes Allen Iverson, LeBron James, Chris Paul, and many other NBA stars.
No doubt Rose is a big wig around the NBA community. He has the portfolio, experience, and connections to transform an ailing team into a winning one. This is the reason why Knicks fans are all hype up about the future of the team.
On the other hand, the jury is still out on Rose as the savior of the Knicks’ franchise. The hoopla surrounding the executive is understandable, but then again he hasn’t manufactured any groundbreaking move, yet.
The NBA is all about stars. With Rose leading the front office, Knicks are believed to be in a position to actually landing one, two, or maybe three of these game-changers depending on the salary cap adjustments and how cunning he would be in trade discussions.
To give NBA fanatics, especially the Knicks die-hards, a better picture on the players who could potentially be on Rose’s radar, here are five stars who could be his potential targets in the offseason.
Fred VanVleet
The wily guard played a big role in the Raptors’ surprising championship run last season. VanVleet, undrafted out of Wichita State, has a case for Most Improved of the Year honor this year as he averages 17.6 points on 40 percent FG shooting with 3.8 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game. His stellar play puts him in play to reap a big contract in the offseason. Adding a dependable, championship-caliber player to the Knicks’ guard rotation is certainly high on Leon Rose’s priority list.
Bradley Beal
Well, here’s the thing, Bell just signed a two-year, $72 million year contract last season that locked him up for the next two seasons with a player option for the 2022-23 season. Nothing is set in stone though with regards to Beal’s long term future in D.C. Washington is few hiccups away from breaking its core and selling its players. Always watch out for Rose in any potential power play for the dynamic guard.
