Empire Writes Back
Fansided

New York Knicks: 6 Takeaways From Orlando Summer League

By Kenneth Teape

Feb 9, 2016; Des Moines, IA, USA; Wichita State Shockers guard Ron Baker (31) gestures from the court against the Drake Bulldogs during the first half at Knapp Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 9, 2016; Des Moines, IA, USA; Wichita State Shockers guard Ron Baker (31) gestures from the court against the Drake Bulldogs during the first half at Knapp Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 7
Next
New York Knicks: 6 Takeaways From Orlando Summer League
Oct 17, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; New York Knicks forward Cleanthony Early (11) goes up for a shot while Charlotte Hornets center Frank Kaminsky III (44) defends during the first half at Time Warner Cable Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

Cleanthony Early Doesn’t Play

The Knicks didn’t have many high draft selections or players with NBA experience on their Summer League team. The person that was supposed to bring that experience was Cleanthony Early, but he didn’t appear in a game because of injury.

Early is still dealing with hamstring issues, and it kept him out of Summer League action. It is unfortunate for Early because he is playing for his next contract; the Knicks decided to not extend him a qualifying offer during the offseason.

As a result, Early is a free agent and free to sign with any team. This would have been a good opportunity for Early to showcase his talent, as playing time was far and few between for the 2014 second round pick.

Injuries have hampered him throughout his NBA career, as he has had to undergo knee surgery both seasons he has been in the league thus far. That has derailed him, as he has been unable to practice or play consistently, spending more time watching from the sidelines than on the court.

At 25-years of age already, Early is running out of chances to show teams he is worthy of a roster spot. He will have to hope someone signs him on potential alone with an invite to training camp and play his way onto a roster. It could be with the Knicks, who have a couple of spots left on their roster.

Next: Veteran Goes Ghost

Home/New York Knicks