Gabe Vincent's Hawks tenure will eventually become an "elite ball knowledge" pull.
After being acquired by Atlanta just before February's trade deadline, the veteran guard suited up in 24 regular season games for the franchise - providing them with some much-needed second-unit stability.
While the numbers aren't anything to write home about, the young Hawks desperately needed another ball-handler. For what it's worth, Vincent's short time in Atlanta went under the radar. He's become pretty underrated.
Still unsigned, even this late into the offseason, it's a bit surprising to see him decline an opportunity elsewhere. He's betting on himself, though, and if able to land a guaranteed deal before the year begins, it'll age as an impressive decision.
He could've landed an opportunity with one of the league's best
Of course, it's natural to rank the defending-champions as the best team in the world. They proved themselves worthy, after all.
However, the league is constantly undergoing major changes. Conference outlooks always look drastically different than the year before. The Eastern Conference is certainly more stacked than it was last year, and it could give the Knicks some trouble.
The Knicks, just a few months removed from finally taking home the Larry O'Brien Trophy, have begun filling out their camp roster. Among many names, Vincent was someone they gave a look.
They ultimately signed five veterans to camp-specific deals, and while it could've been wise for Vincent to take a chance on outshining his peers, Jake Fischer of The Stein Line revealed that the former Hawk wanted to "wait for a more sure-fire opportunity."
While not specifically stated, it's easy to see why he didn't take the Knicks deal.
A veteran of Vincent's caliber, this late into his career, shouldn't have to essentially try out for a squad. Even the defending-champs.
Teams know what they're getting from him. It's why the Hawks traded for him, and it's why he'll likely land another job soon.
Vincent is among the best available free agents
There aren't too many left.
As October looms, teams are finalizing their groups, not looking externally. At least not for someone to take up a standard deal.
This saga may even last into the regular season, but sooner rather than later, teams will realize they're in need of a proven ball-handler.
He provided Atlanta a spark at the tail-end of last season, and could very well do the same elsewhere.
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