The New York Knicks are officially in offseason mode and preparing to make all kinds of roster changes in the very near future. While Carmelo Anthony and Tyson Chandler do not want to hear it, the team is in a rebuilding phase as Phil Jackson looks to make his mark quickly. Could that come in the form of bringing in old players to his new team? Pau Gasol thinks to.
Gasol admits that he has no idea what his future holds with the Los Angeles Lakers. As he prepares for free agency, he is considering all options, whether that be returning to the Lakers or possibly teaming up with the New York Knicks and being back with Jackson.
"I'm going to listen closely to what the Lakers will have to offer and say about the team's situation and position at the time," Gasol said, via ESPN.com. "We know what it is today, but we don't know what it is going to be July 1. See how the draft is going to play out, who they are going to end up drafting. Things like that that can have an impact or an effect on the structure of the team."
However, when pressed further about where he was considering moving to if the Lakers offer is not up to par, Gasol referenced Jackson and said he would certainly be willing to list to offers from the Knicks. According to Yahoo's Marc J. Spears, Gasol admitted that he is excited about heading into free agency and is very open to a reunion with Jackson, even if that means signing with New York.
The Knicks could have a major need for Gasol. Chandler recently made headlines saying he was not interested in wasting another season and not making the postseason. He is not in favor of rebuilding and will request a trade if things are not looking good. The center has one more year remaining on his contract which makes him an easy move. Jackson could then sign Gasol in his place.
Gasol's interest in the Knicks will likely hinge on the free agency decision of Anthony. In the same mindset as Chandler, Anthony is not interested in rebuilding. However, adding players like Gasol would certainly help the team become contenders once again. If Anthony leaves, the Knicks become a whole lot less desirable even with Jackson leading the team.
