The Knicks and Josh Hart's representation have decided to extend the player option deadline to make sure the team can agree with him on a long-term deal, per the latest NBA Rumors.
The Knicks originally had until yesterday, and now that deadline has been moved until Thursday night to get a deal done.
Josh Hart was acquired by New York from the Portland Trail Blazers at the trade deadline for the Knicks' first-round pick this season. Hart was highly valuable for the team in the playoffs providing hard-nosed defense and efficient offense.
No matter what happens, it has been heavily rumored that the Knicks will end up re-signing Hart. If he were to opt-in, he could get only 140 percent more on his current contract with an extension. This would mean that he could make up to $18,144,000 million dollars next season. Hart could command more on the open market, but this is the max the Knicks can offer before the start of free agency.
NBA Rumors: What's the latest between the Knicks and Josh Hart?
Signing Hart to a long-term contract would help the front office due to the fact that they would be able to access their non-taxpayer midlevel exception this offseason. This would allow the Knicks to potentially add a scorer. According to Ian Begley, It has been rumored that the front office will be going after Donte DiVincenzo. Per Bagley, the team is "fans of the idea of adding" DiVincenzo to the roster.
Donte DiVincenzo would be a prime target to add. It has been rumored that Hart wants him on the roster and this could help with the perceived scoring issues the Knicks have.
This team struggled to score in the playoffs. Yes, DiVincenzo is not a star by any means, but he could add another threat offensively. Short of trading for a star this offseason, this is the biggest problem Thibs and Co. have.
