To Fix Things, The Knicks Must Start Small

The Knicks are going to have more cap space than any other team in the NBA this summer. In most circumstances it should mean they can lure any top tier free agent they want, but given how abysmal this year has been that's not going to be the case.  It won't be easy to convince players like LaMarcus Aldridge or Marc Gasol to come away from their current situations, so it's best for the Knicks to target other mid tier players that would best suit what they want to do.  Building a proper team that way could make things a lot easier come 2016 when players such as Kevin Durant, Lance Stephenson (potentially), and (dare I say) Lebron James hit the market.  That cannot happen unless they focus on improving the roster this off season.

Here are some upcoming free agents I think would be good targets:

 

Aaron Afflalo - A good shooter who can spread the floor and hold his own defensively.  His game would work well with Carmelo Anthony and the triangle offense.



Tobias Harris -  He has a high upside with his quickness and scoring ability.  It also helps that he is a native New Yorker and has already expressed interest in joining the Knicks.



Robin Lopez - The Knicks need a solid, defensive minded, and good rebounding big man.  He would bring a nice dynamic that can be counted on on a nightly basis.



Amir Johnson -  Another good rebounder with the skill to score in the paint. He's also willing to get physical down low, something that has been lacking on this team for a while.




Greg Monroe - If there is a player that resembles what Amare Stoudemire was for the Knicks minus the injuries it's Monroe (Though he is a much more capable defender).  He can score, rebound, and is effective around the rim.  Likewise, he will have no problem adjusting to a system like the triangle. However, should the team get the top pick and draft Jahlil Okafor, bringing him in could potentially jam things up on the roster, but having him as an alternative is not a bad thing.



Reggie Jackson - The teams need of a quality point guard couldn't be more evident. Jackson is a quick guard who can break a defense down with his slashing style and high motor.  He may cost a little more than the others, but signing him would be an instant talent upgrade.



Goran Dragic - Here is the ideal triangle offense point guard.  He can set up teammates, hit open shots at a high rate, and provide stabilization for a volume shooter like Anthony.  The only problem is he could decide to stay in Miami and not take the chance in signing with the Knicks given their current situation. Nevertheless, the team should still take a shot at him.