New York Knicks big man Enes Kanter is expected to pick up his 2018-19 player-option, after the franchise is reportedly unlikely to dole out a long-term deal for his services, according to Al Iannazzone of Newsday.

Kanter has an $18.6-million player-option, one which he will need to pick up before the end of the month in order to avoid hitting free agency.

“The Knicks are not expected to give him a multiyear deal if he opts out, so odds are Kanter, who loves New York, will pick up his option. The Knicks would be fine with that.”

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Kanter first fanned the flames upon the end of the regular season, where he told reporters he would opt out of his deal in search of a long-term deal. His agent quickly came to the rescue, saying his client will explore all options over the course of the offseason before making a decision.

That saver might have been the smartest one of his camp, as the big man market is expected to be rather dry this time around, something that isn't very beneficial to Kanter, who had perhaps the best season of his career after posting 14.1 points and 11 rebounds per game through 71 games as a starter.

The Turkish international shot an effective 59.2 percent from the floor, along with a career-best 84.8 percent from the foul line.