Tyson Chandler's future in New York is unknown at this point. Currently under contract for one more season, the Knicks might not be able to retain him if Carmelo Anthony comes back. As Phil Jackson works to clean house in an effort to bring a championship to the franchise, a trade of Chandler could be in the cards if Anthony opts to stay. The Dallas Mavericks plan to be first in line if that happens.
The Dallas Morning News has already reported the Mavericks are targeting the return of Chandler if New York makes him available. The center was part of the championship team and letting him walk away in free agency might be the biggest question mark in Mark Cuban's tenure. However, Cuban is not looking to let him walk away twice and if he is up for trading, the Mavericks will come with a deal.
So what could the Knicks potentially get in return for the center? According to HoopsRumors.com, the Knicks could potentially ask for Jose Calderon and a first-round pick in return. That is mere speculation, but the deal does make sense. The Knicks need improvement at the point guard position. Raymond Felton is likely done with the team after his roller coaster season. Iman Shumpert is viewed as a trade piece and Tim Hardaway Jr is still developing. Calderon would certainly be a strong asset to the team and the first-round pick would be nice considering the Knicks have nothing for the upcoming draft.
Giving Anthony a new contract will cap the Knicks out. Unless they can get a player to take a very steep discount, they have to get creative in their offseason moves. A trade of Chandler is the best and most likely option. Many teams are in need of a big man and Chandler could be one of the better ones available, plus he brings championship experience to any roster which is always a plus.
The Mavericks are not the only ones keeping a close eye on what the future of Chandler looks like. According to ESPN.com, the Oklahoma City Thunder, Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics are all strong options for a deal with the Knicks as long as at least one draft pick is involved in the trade. Chandler wants to play for a contending team and while retaining Anthony certainly makes the Knicks one of those teams, it might mean the departure of the center.
