The New York Knicks are reportedly not planning to re-sign point guard Jimmer Fredette after his current 10-day deal expires on Thursday as the team is said to be looking at new guards to possibly replace the Glens Falls legend.
Fredette, a fan-favorite in his hometown of New York, was signed by the Knicks to a 10-day contract on Feb. 22 and was expected by the team's fans and supporters to make an impression with the opportunity he was given.
However, in the five games he had so far suited up for interim coach Kurt Rambis, he played only two games. He was only utilized 3.0 minutes per game, enough to produce dismal averages of 1.5 points and 0.2 assists. He shot the ball well from the field, though, and is 50 percent in the few three-pointers he was able to fire.
Fansided noted that "with just one game left against the Portland Trail Blazers before his 10-day contract ends, Fredette's time with the Knicks may be coming to an end".
Overall, it is easy to understand that his playing time with the Knicks is just not enough to judge what he can do on the floor. Still, reports are out that New York is looking for potential replacements for the 27-year-old point guard.
"Yes, yes, yes. Management is collecting (names), that's what they're doing," Rambis told the New York Post's Marc Berman, referring to the team's search for new guards. "(They're) talking about guys, thinking about guys, not only for this season (but) bringing guys in they might want to hold onto and bring them to summer league next year and work out during the summer. There are a lot of names floating around out there."
One name that particularly stands out as Fredette's replacement is third-year pro Ray McCallum, who was recently waived by the San Antonio Spurs before the five-time champions signed veteran Andre Miller.
Fredette is said to be "pushed around a little" during practice scrimmages, according to Rambis, which had not satisfied team officials.
The interim coach had nice words for the Glens Falls, New York native, though, saying that Fredette is "a great competitor, a feisty guy and I like that".
Rambis also said that "he's not afraid to compete, not afraid to go against anybody. He's got great passion and spirit for the game. I really like the way he approaches it. There's tremendous enthusiasm when he's out there on the court. All those things bode well for him."
Still, a second 10-day contract may not come for the luckless Fredette.