NBA Rumors: ‘Overpaid’ Derrick Williams Hints at Re-signing with NY Knicks

By Jenn Loro - 15 Apr '16 06:52AM

The New York Knicks had been plagued a stream of criticisms following a series of intriguing sign-ins last year. The said moves were often dismissed as failures after the team's lackluster performance in the previous seasons where Knicks missed three consecutive playoffs.

One of the most heavily-criticized financial decisions Phil Jackson made as President of New York Knicks was Derrick William's $9million two-year contract with the franchise in the summer of 2015 as mentioned in a report by Movie News Guide. For some, the hefty price tag for hybrid forward's caliber was outrageous.

Nevertheless, Williams has been one of Knicks' prized assets instrumental in bringing out some of the team's best games in the 2015-16 season with his athletic prowess and infectious energy.

To date, the forward player averaged 9.3 points and 3.7 rebounds in 17.9 minutes per game and a PER of 17.3 as reported by Real GM. His stats translates to 36 averages of 18.6 points and 7.6 boards.

As Knicks kissed the playoffs goodbye, Williams somehow dropped hints about a potential opting-in in the 2016-17 season with the New York franchise in his recent official Instagram post as he thanked fans for support.

"Last home game of the year ... You fans have been awesome. It's been so fun competing in front of you guys. Looking forward to it again," Williams' Instagram caption reads as quoted by Fansided.

Meanwhile, Williams has a one-year $4.4million player option which gives him the autonomous choice of signing in with the team next year or leaving the franchise altogether in search for greener pastures.

But rumors point to a greater likelihood of Williams declining the player option in exchange of a longer contract built on long-term financial security. In his past five seasons, the power forward has already played for three different teams. However, the 24-year old athlete is still trying to find a home where he can develop and hone his skills. Knicks happens to be the most suitable team for him, at least for now.