Knicks Add Williams on Two-Year Deal

USA Today

The New York Knicks have made another free agent signing, this time adding forward Derrick Williams on a two-year, $10 million deal that includes a second-year player option.

The news was first reported by ESPN’s Chris Broussard.

httpss://twitter.com/Chris_Broussard/status/617159463867404288

At 6-feet, 8-inches and 241 pounds, Williams can play both the three and the four. With that in mind, president Phil Jackson and head coach Derek Fisher will most likely want to see Williams’ size and length around the perimeter in terms of defense, an area where of his game where he struggles at times.

The second overall pick in the 2011 draft by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Williams has failed to live up to the hype he earned while at the University of Arizona. In four seasons he has averaged just 9.3 points and 4.3 rebounds while receiving 22.4 minutes per game. Last year he scored 8.3 points a game while pulling in 2.7 boards over 19.8 minutes for the Sacramento Kings.

Not much of a shooter, Williams is athletic and can finish strong off the drive. At 26 years of age, he still has time to develop. His career per 36 minutes stats – 15 PPG, 6.9 RPG- would suggest he could be a much more productive player if given the time.

Given how depleted the Knicks roster currently stands, Williams should see increased action. If he takes significant steps forward this coming season, expect him to opt out and look for more money this time next year.

Williams now joins shooting guard Aaron Afflalo and center Robin Lopez on the Knicks’ list of summer acquisitions.