Knicks, point guard Ron Baker agree on a new deal as free agency begins
Ron Baker, #31, of the New York Knicks loses the ball in the first half against Norman Powell, #24, of the Toronto Raptors on Sunday, April 9, 2017, at Madison Square Garden. Credit: Jim McIsaac
ORLANDO, Fla. — Shortly after midnight, the Knicks reached their first free-agent agreement, coming to terms on a new deal for Ron Baker on Saturday morning.
The point guard had been with the team at summer league practice, watching from the stands, and definitely was someone the Knicks wanted to bring back. Baker broke the news himself in the first few minutes of the free-agent negotiating period, tweeting, “Excited to be returning to the #Knicks next season! S/O all my family & friends! #Love.”
Baker, who was a restricted free agent, averaged 4.1 points and 2.1 assists in 52 games last season, including 13 starts. This was hardly a splash, but it was important to the Knicks to bring him back. The Knicks liked his defense and toughness.
The Knicks have much more work to do, namely figuring out what to do with Carmelo Anthony, who has a no-trade clause in his contract.
The Pacers traded Paul George to the Thunder on Friday night, so the Cavaliers, Celtics and Rockets could up their pursuit of Anthony.
The Knicks also are expected to try to land a veteran point guard. They could go after free agents George Hill and Jrue Holiday or try to bring back Derrick Rose.
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.