The New York Knicks have a very good chance of landing a top-four draft pick. The team failed to finish with the worst record in the NBA, but they came close enough to guarantee the top pick. However, there is a chance the pick lands at No. 5 instead of inside the top four which could alter the route the Knicks take in the NBA Draft. According to the New York Post, team president Phil Jackson will be prepared to trade the team's draft pick if it falls out of the top four with several players in mind of who to take with it.
While Jackson made it clear that he wants to rebuild the Knicks in free agency, trades could easily come for the team. According to Ian Begley of ESPNNewYork.com, Jose Calderon, Tim Hardaway Jr and Lou Amundson are all players that could be up on the trade block this offseason along with that potential draft pick. Begley writes that getting rid of Calderon is a priority and the only way that is possible is to package the player with either Hardaway or the draft pick. Calderon's stock is simply not high enough to match his current salary.
There are plenty of players the Knicks could look at if they start trading. Carmelo Anthony told ESPN.com that he wants a veteran for the point guard position over getting a rookie in the draft. While everyone chases Rajon Rondo, New York could look for a trade. According to the Detroit Free Press, Brandon Jennings could be available if Reggie Jackson is re-signed. Deron Williams is available with the Nets although his contract is ugly. Ty Lawson could be an option along with Isaiah Thomas depending on how adventurous the Boston Celtics get.
New York is also looking to get quality at the power forward/center spots. While Andrea Bargnani is looking to return in 2015, the Knicks are getting tied to a lot of names. Bleacher Report suggested New York as a landing spot for DeMarcus Cousins should the Sacramento Kings follow through with a deal. Brook Lopez or even Kevin Durant could be options as the Knicks might try for the home run deal.
According to the New York Post, the Knicks have a long list of free agent names they plan on chasing in order to avoid trade deals. However, most teams are all chasing the same kind of guys and if the Knicks are not competitive enough with salary offers, they could be looking at Plan B instead.
