NBA: Grading the notable moves from the first day of free agency

NBA New Orleans Pelicans Lonzo Ball (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
NBA New Orleans Pelicans Lonzo Ball (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /
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Orlando Magic
Orlando Magic Evan Fournier (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports) /

The Knicks use their cap space

The Knicks give Fournier an offer he can’t refuse at 4 years/$78M

Grade: D-

I hated this move.

Evan Fournier seemed destined for a pay cut this offseason from his $18 million figure. That definitely did not happen, as Fournier actually got a pay raise, even in a down season.

In a vacuum, you can justify this contract. Fournier shot just under 47 percent from 3 in Boston and the Knicks needed to get some shooting. Plus, there was zero chance the Celtics matched this offer.

The thing is, the Knicks were one of the only teams with cap room. This money could’ve been better spent elsewhere. Go get yourself a DeRozan, or throw a max contract at Kawhi Leonard. Heck, even re-sign Bullock for $10 million, who gives you similar production!

The Knicks definitely overpaid for Fournier and they’ll be paying the price for four years.

Knicks bring back Rose for 3 years/$43M

Grade: A-

Contrary to the Fournier singing, I thought this was a tremendous move for New York. Derrick Rose went 24-11 with the Knicks once he joined the squad and was starting in the playoffs. A three-year deal at around $14 million a year is totally worth it for your starting point guard who looked like your best player on some nights.