The chances the New York Knicks get the No. 1 draft pick are slim considering they failed to finish without the worst record in the NBA. However, that is not a concern to team president Phil Jackson who is planning a lot of potential moves for the franchise who will have a solid amount of cap space to help rebuild. While Jackson favors rebuilding the franchise in free agency, could it be a trade he seeks out first?
According to Al Iannazzone of Newsday, the Knicks will explore trade deals with their top five draft pick for either Kevin Love or Kevin Durant once the offseason begins. Iannazzone writes that while Jackson indicated he would prefer to use the pick rather than deal it, eyeing a top defender, sources believe the Knicks will first see if they can get a marquee player before considering a rookie instead.
As of now, anything could really happen for the Knicks considering Jackson is getting pressured to make plenty of moves to avoid another disastrous season. Several NBA sources including the New York Daily News have been reporting the Knicks are very interested in Love who has the chance to be a free agent this summer. The team could easily eye Durant who has one more year remaining on his contract. The Knicks have also been linked to trade deals with both DeMarcus Cousins and Brandon Jennings depending on who the team is capable of getting in free agency.
While the trade deals are a nice thought, Marc Berman of the New York Post is reporting the Knicks like the idea of rebuilding in free agency and signing big contracts over giving up draft picks. Berman writes that Jackson likes the idea of a top draft pick, but he also believes rebuilding through free agency can be just as successful.
The Knicks have a lofty wish list in free agency. With players like Jose Calderon and Tim Hardaway Jr potentially on their way out, the Knicks like Rajon Rondo, Greg Monroe and LaMarcus Aldridge in free agency. Several other teams have those players at the top wish list so competition will be high. Being open to trades at least gives Jackson some flexibility.
