Friday, March 18, 2016

Free Agents the Knicks Should Consider

BOLD CONFESSION --- Memphis Grizzlies point guard Mike Conley doesn't shy away from the notion that he's aiming to make his first All-Star appearance in this, his seventh NBA season. Conley is Memphis' second-leading scorer, averaging 16.6 points per game. (Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE Getty Images
Photo Credit: Joe Murphy Getty Images
Photo Credit : Steve Mitchell USA Today Sports
Photo Credit: Jae C. Hong/AP
As the season winds down, it's time for the New York Knicks to begin looking at the upcoming free agents for 2016. Here are a few players the team should consider signing if they want to have a success in the 2016-17 season and beyond.


Conley's game has grown tremendously over the past three seasons and would translate well to the Knicks offense. A solid point guard like him would help both Anthony and Porzingis get easier looks at the basket a put a sense of flow and control to a unit that is often stagnant and discombobulated.


His attitude still needs some adjusting, but there is no denying his ability to distribute on the court. Rondo would bring an aggressive, freewheeling style that would create countless opportunities for scorers. Phil Jackson has stated that he wants a guard that can effectively run his patented triangle offense, something Rondo is a bit skeptical of. However, the door is still open for the Knicks to convince him to give it a try.


Despite his age (35) Gasol is still a very capable big man with scoring ability. His experience would come in handy for a youngster like Porzingis who would stand to benefit greatly under 14-year veterans wing. His relationship with the Zen Master should make him an easier candidate to pursue, but it will depend on how he feels at this point in his career.


Bazemore has opened some eyes in Atlanta by thriving as a role player. The Knicks could use some extra help off the bench in the form of an effective 6th man, he just might be the guy to do it. He's also a fairly good two-way defender, something sorely needed on a team that has given up so much on the perimeter.


Smith has suddenly hit a crossroad in his career. Despite having talent, there doesn't seem to be a place that is a definite fit for him. New York could change that by giving him the chance to play a purposeful role. Signing him would require the team to make some roster adjustments, but if there's still any semblance of the former All Defensive Second team member, it's one the Knicks should consider.


This might seem a bit farfetched, but a Lin-Knicks reunion is something that should be looked into. Lin hasn't made his mark on the league quite like he did in the big apple, and if it wasn't for a contested contract situation, he probably would still be in New York. His ability to break down defenses and make plays with the ball are a staple of his game and you have to believe the fans who still remember the "Linsanity" days would welcome him back with open arms.


The top free agent to be is a dream acquisition many fans would love to see. While meshing he and Anthony's games would prove to be a task, there's no denying his potential impact on the team. The Knicks have suffered greatly to find a second scorer who can put up consistent numbers each game. Bringing in Durant would not only solve those problems, it would give the Knicks the respect and relevancy that has eluded them for nearly 15 years.
             

No comments:

Post a Comment