Elfrid Payton's dad says his son chose the New York Knicks in free agency “because of the fit.”

Payton signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the Knicks in July. The second season is a team option.

“He chose New York because of the fit,” Payton Sr. told Marc Berman of the New York Post. “He’s happy to be on a team that has a chance. Nobody is giving them a chance. They’re like the underdogs. They got to grind because they got talent.”

Elfrid Payton played with the New Orleans Pelicans last season. He averaged 10.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 7.6 assists while shooting 43.4 percent from the field, 31.4 percent from beyond the arc and 74.3 percent from the free-throw line.

Payton will likely back up Dennis Smith Jr. at the point guard spot in New York. The Knicks acquired Smith from the Dallas Mavericks last season in the blockbuster Kristaps Porzingis trade.

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Nothing is set in stone, but the Knicks will probably start Dennis Smith Jr., RJ Barrett, Kevin Knox, Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson next season.

Payton is a strong defender who has great vision. The Knicks are excited about Payton pushing Smith in practice. That will only make Smith a better player moving forward.