4. Upgrading the point guard position

This is arguably the No. 1 thing on the New York Knicks’ to-do list this offseason. If they want to be taken seriously as contenders, they have to upgrade Eflrid Payton as their starting point guard.

READ MORE: NBA Rumors: Knicks could be potential trade suitor for Kemba Walker from Thunder

Elfrid Payton had his moments this season, but he was quickly yanked from the starting lineup and rotation in the postseason; that should tell you all you need to know about his standing with the team. Luckily for Leon Rose and William Wesley, there are plenty of options available in free agency that would represent an upgrade at point guard.

New York could go the veteran route, signing an established player such as Kyle Lowry, whom the team came close to acquiring via trade years ago, or Chris Paul. It would be surprising if Paul left the Phoenix Suns, but given his relationship with Rose and the Knicks’ vast improvements, the chances are better than zero.

The Knicks could go for a younger point guard to fit the timeline of the rest of their roster in Lonzo Ball. He is a lockdown defender and elite playmaker, but took major strides as a spot-up shooter this season, converting a career-high 37.8 percent of his 3-pointers and 78.1 percent of his foul shots.