Knicks Rumors: Brandon Jennings Plans On Staying
New York Knicks Rumors: Brandon Jennings has only played one preseason game with the Knicks, but he is already envisioning a future with the team.
New York Knicks rumors have been quiet in recent weeks. Rumors swirled earlier in the offseason with free agency, but since then things have slowed down. The Knicks are now focused on the preseason, preparing for the regular season in about three weeks.
Rumors will begin to pop up until then as the Knicks look to get their roster down to 15 players. One person who knows that he will be a part of that regular season roster is Brandon Jennings.
Jennings signed a one-year deal with the Knicks worth $5 million this offseason. He is looking to rehab his value, which has taken a hit because of an Achilles’ tear. Jennings was able to return to the court last season, but looked rusty as he was sidelined 11 months.
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He signed with the Knicks knowing that he would come in as the backup to Derrick Rose. It is a role Phil Jackson believes Jennings can thrive in, having confidence that he can win the Sixth Man of the Year award. The Knicks were in the market for a backup point guard, and Jennings was looking for a place that he could flourish again, so the two made for a good match.
Many people believe that Jennings can parlay this season into a bigger contract next summer. With the salary cap expected to rise again, Jennings could strike it rich as a free agent if he plays well with the Knicks. One scenario people don’t dicuss is Jennings staying with the Knicks beyond this season.
It is something that someone asked him about on Twitter, and Jennings responded by saying how much he loves New York, and he expected to stay.
Playing for the Knicks is something that Jennings has wanted to do for a while. He was hopeful that they would select him with the 8th pick in the 2009 NBA Draft; instead, the Knicks selected Jordan Hill, and Jennings fell to the Milwaukee Bucks at No.10.
If Jennings can accomplish the goal of winning Sixth Man of the Year as Jackson believes, teams will line up for his services next summer. But, the Knicks could have the best shot at retaining him as Jennings truly loves New York city and the passion their fans bring.
Jennings will quickly learn for himself just how passionate New York fans can be. He can ask teammate Kristaps Porzingis for some insight as well. Porzingis was booed heavily on draft night, but within months was hearing his named chanted at Madison Square Garden.
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The same type of response can happen for Jennings. He has shown love for the city, the fans and organization; if he can perform on the court, the feeling will be reciprocated.