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Lakers: 3 teams that could offer Talen Horton-Tucker a poison-pill contract

By Luca De Angelis

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 10: Talen Horton-Tucker #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks to pass the ball defended by Mike Muscala #33 of the Oklahoma City Thunder at Staples Center on February 10, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 10: Talen Horton-Tucker #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks to pass the ball defended by Mike Muscala #33 of the Oklahoma City Thunder at Staples Center on February 10, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers
(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) – Los Angeles Lakers /

2. New York Knicks

Salary by year:

  • 2021-22: $54,935,375
  • 2022-23: $22,057,218
  • 2023-24: $10,974,560
  • 2024-25: $0

Despite a history of incompetence, the New York Knicks are quietly in a great position. The only big contract they have on the books for next season is Julius Randle’s $19.8 million, which he’s worth based on his performance this season.

Surrounding Randle is a bunch of young talent on cheap contracts, such as Mitch Robinson ($1.8 million), Immanuel Quickley ($2.2 million), RJ Barrett ($8.6 million), and Obi Toppin ($5.1 million).

However, aside from Austin Rivers, there won’t be a shooting guard under contract for the Knicks next season (Barrett is currently listed as a small forward on the Knicks depth chart).  A starting spot is thus available for Talen Horton-Tucker to slot into next season.

At 21 years of age in 2021-22, he’ll fit perfectly with the Knicks’ young core. With minimal long-term salary commitments, the front-office has the salary cap flexibility to take a $15 million per year hit without shedding any contracts.

With a move to New York City, THT would be in the one market bigger than Los Angeles. New York City’s bright lights can be overwhelming for some players, not just because of the market size but also because New York’s basketball fans are success deprived.

However, anyone who is part of the next Knicks championship will become a legend, so a move to The Big Apple is Talen Horton Tucker’s best chance to build a brand and create a lasting legacy.

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