NBA Rumors: 4 Heavyweights from the East Show Interest in a Free Agent
John Konchar has just been cut by the Minnesota Timberwolves and could switch conferences to join the Heat, Knicks, Raptors, or Magic.
John Konchar has suddenly become a sought-after player in free agency. Miami Heat, New York Knicks, Orlando Magic, and Toronto Raptors are reportedly interested in acquiring the veteran forward, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line.
The Timberwolves part ways with Konchar
Minnesota Timberwolves recently decided to cut Konchar after acquiring him in a trade with Utah Jazz. The player arrived in Minnesota along with Cody Williams in exchange for Josh Green and cash.
Now, just after his departure, four teams are closely following the 30-year-old player. "John Konchar is one of the best free agents available and has drawn interest from Miami, New York, Orlando, and Toronto," Stein wrote in his Substack.
The financial circumstances of the four teams also affect their chances of adding the forward. The Raptors are only $2.3 million below the first apron and have only 13 guaranteed contracts after retaining Kawhi Leonard. The other three teams have enough flexibility regarding the apron to add another player. Both the Florida teams and the Knicks currently have 14 players on standard contracts.
The situation in Minnesota necessitates a decision
The Timberwolves had to part ways with Konchar after signing Jonathan Kuminga for two years and $12.4 million, a move that left the franchise restricted in the second apron.
Konchar, who went undrafted in the 2019 Draft, is in the final year of a three-year, $19 million contract he previously signed.
The Knicks, a particularly interesting option
Among the mentioned teams, New York could offer a particularly clear opportunity due to the Knicks' lack of options at the small forward position. Currently, they have Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Tyler Nickel as alternatives, although Josh Hart can also play that position.
Konchar split last season between Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies. He played 56 games, averaging 4.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.5 steals in 19.9 minutes per game.
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