Raptors: 3 burning questions as 2022 free agent frenzy starts

2. Will the Knicks catch up to the Raptors?

Even though the Knicks missed out in their pursuit of Murray, one of Toronto’s most prominent rivals will likely improve significantly when the ink dries on Jalen Brunson’s contract. Brunson will be a big name attracted by the lure of Madison Square Garden, and he may not come alone.

The flurry of moves the Knicks have made over the next few days, including trading Nerlens Noel and Alec Burks to the Pistons, gives off the impression that the Knicks are willing to both sign Brunson and make one more big-name signing. Could that be the retaining of Mitchell Robinson?

Will the Knicks catch the Toronto Raptors?

The Knicks are dangerously close to becoming competent, which is what the Raptors don’t need in what has become a very difficult division already. With RJ Barrett starting to become a star and Julius Randle still an effective scorer (albeit not a consistent All-Star), Brunson and Robinson would give them solid starting depth.

The Knicks might not be a world-beater, but they will surely be a team who will fight for a play-in spot and give the Raptors fits. Toronto needs to cross their fingers and hope the additions that New York makes to their roster are minimal in nature.