The New York Knicks are reportedly considering the possibility of re-signing Andrea Bargnani despite the Italian facing significant criticism in recent years.
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Bargnani has overcome his injury woes to produce some impressive performances recently, and it is understood that team president Phil Jackson could be set to reward him by offering him a new deal.
The Italian star had a 25-point and 12-rebound game a fortnight ago, and has now scored 21 and 25 points in his last two games as he has provided the Knicks with a timely boost.
Having traded JR Smith and Iman Shumpert and lost Carmelo Anthony for the season after he underwent knee surgery, Bargnani has given the Knicks some scoring and with his five-year deal worth $50m set to expire this summer, he could talk to the franchise about a new contract.
“According to an NBA source, Jackson still is a fan and has interest in bringing Bargnani back for the right price because of his length, post defense and ability to score and pass in the structured system,” the New York Post reported.
The 29-year-old has certainly put up impressive numbers with his scoring, but there are still doubts over his rebounding and defense for a player with his attributes.
In addition, his current contract has been the course of great frustration for Knicks fans who were stunned when the team took it on, and so Bargnani will need to expect to have to take a significant reduction if he is to play in New York next season.
However, it is interesting to see the franchise identify that they can use him on their roster, and so the two parties could be able to come to an agreement.
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