The New York Knicks have roster space to fill as more options are hitting the market for the team to be able to make a move and add some depth. Size is an issue as Robin Lopez remains the lone true center on the team. Behind him there are a lot of question marks leading the Knicks to eye several options that include both cheap contracts and potential trade deals.
According to a press release from the Portland Trail Blazers, the team has released Brendan Haywood after acquiring him from the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Trail Blazers made the move before Haywood's $10 million contract became guaranteed and now the center is a free agent. Despite his low stats, there is expected to be some interest in Haywood now that he no longer has a monster contract to his name. Considering the Knicks simply need someone that can come in and give six to seven quality minutes a game, he might be an easy contract to bring on.
According to Michael Scotto of Sheridan Hoops, the Knicks are looking at several size options on the open market. Carlos Boozer could become a real favorite of the team considering his versatility on the court. Last season with the Lakers, Boozer averaged 11.8 points and 6.8 rebounds coming off the bench. At 33 he can still hit mid-range shots and be an excellent defender. That is what the Knicks need. Scotto writes that Kevin Seraphin could be an option as well, but he lacks the scoring ability that Boozer brings. Seraphin would be a good defender, but the Knicks might venture towards versatility instead.
There are trade options if the Knicks are willing to move a player or two. According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, the Heat are desperate to move Chris Andersen, but his contract could hurt interest. Andersen would be a quality addition to the Knicks coming off the bench. He would be a solid replacement for Lopez or even Kristaps Porzingis and Derrick Williams. Mike Miller would offer the same thing, but Portland has yet to release him.
According to the Oregonian, the Trail Blazers are torn with what to do with Miller. When the team made the trade with the Cavaliers, it was expected Miller would be released along with Haywood however the forward remains on the roster. If released, the Knicks would be wise to take a look again because of his defending and shooting abilities.
