The New York Knicks are looking to rebound from a disappointing season last year and return to the playoffs, but aren't serious title contenders. Now under Phil Jackson and new head coach Derek Fisher, the blocks are starting to be put in place to build a championship team.
That started with the re-signing of Carmelo Anthony, but the big moves will be made after this season, when Amare Stoudemire and Andrea Bargnani's massive contracts come off the books. With more than $42 million in cap space and the allure of Phil Jackson, the Knicks should be a big player in the 2015 free agency market. Who will they go after?
Marc Gasol
Gasol is target No. 1 for Phil Jackson, and he should be. He's the perfect big man for the Triangle system due to his deft passing touch, and he'll give the Knicks the defensive presence they thought they were getting from Tyson Chandler. Gasol is a threat offensively and he doesn't need any plays to be called for him, which will allow for Anthony to continue to be the focal point of the offense.
Plus, Gasol has already stated his desire to play in New York. Memphis said they're not going to do what Minnesota did with Kevin Love, so the Knicks will probably have a bidding war with the Grizzlies at the end of the season - a war that heavily favors New York.
Rajon Rondo
Rondo will not be a Boston Celtic next year, whether he leaves via a trade or through free agency. He's the most accomplished player in this class, and New York will have the ability to throw a lot of money his way. Whether they do or not is another matter - none of Phil Jackson's championship teams had a star point guard, and Rondo needs the ball in his hands as much and Carmelo does. However, without a lot of great players hitting the market, the Knicks might just find a way to make Rondo fit.
Jeff Green
Green was the best player on the Celtics last year with Rondo hurt, and there's a good chance Boston won't resign him as they try to rebuild. He's a versatile forward that's essentially a poor man's version of Carmelo Anthony that plays better defense. Green and Anthony could effectively hold down both forward spots and wreak havoc with their skill and athleticism.
David West
West is 34 and nearing the end of his career, which could allow New York to get him for cheaper contract, but he would bring the kind of toughness and intensity the Knicks haven't had since the mid-90's. He rebounds well and has a excellent mid-range jumper, which would make him a perfect complement to Gasol.
Paul Millsap
Millsap has had a lot of success in both Utah and Atlanta, and he's probably going to be offered a lot more than he's worth due to the lack of stars in this free agent class. However, that doesn't dismiss the fact the Millsap is still one of the best rebounders in the league and he has a dependable offensive game.
Back to the New York Knicks Newsfeed