The New York Knicks are expected to sign Luca Vildoza, a guard who currently plays for TD Systems Baskonia in the EuroLeague.
The Argentine guard stands at 6-foot-3 and can play both guard positions. Ian Begley of SNY confirmed that the Knicks have decided against the signing of Simi Shittu, leaving the franchise with an open roster spot for Vildoza. It is unclear at this stage if he will be signed to a 10-day deal or a long-term contract.
Vildoza averaged 10.1 points, 3.4 assists and 2.0 rebounds in 25.2 minutes through 31 games in the Euroleague this season. The 25-year-old won the Liga ACB, the Spanish League and was crowned ACB Finals MVP in 2020 against FC Barcelona – an award won the previous season by International teammate Facundo Campazzo, who signed with the Denver Nuggets earlier this season.
Jason Filippi, International Scout with Babcock Hoops, provided KFTV with a summary of Vildoza:
“I like him but I don’t love him in the sense that I like him for a good European team but not as much for NBA. He is another in a long line and proud tradition of tough Argentinian point guards who have done well in Europe. Think of a Pablo Prigioni with less savvy but a bit more scoring/shooting ability,” Filippi said.
“He is more of a slasher than a shooter but his 3-point shot has improved a lot since coming to Europe. He has a strong build and is a decent athlete for a Euro guard. Gritty, hard-nosed defender. Creative passer who is a good pick-&-roll player. I think he has just average natural talent but makes up for it with toughness and hard play. He has a knack for making big shots including an exciting game-winning buzzer-beater in last years’ Spanish League finals,” Filippi added.
Vildoza was a runner-up with Argentina in the 2019 World Cup and the 2017 FIBA AmeriCup and took home gold in both the 2014 South American Games and the 2019 Pan American Games. He’s solid from deep, shooting 3.7 threes a game at a 35.9% success rate. He could add some depth to the Knicks’ roster and provide the team with valuable bench minutes. Check out some of his 2020-21 highlights for Baskonia below.
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