FREE AGENT/Trade/Transaction Idea thread

[dakomish23]

Honestly I'd be excited for Greg Monroe. Dude is only 25 and has been with the **** Pistons his whole career. I'm sure he has a lot to prove, seems humble, and I'm sure would be molded into a stronger player under Phil .

I would love to see Greg Monroe in New York and, based on last season, Stan Van Gundy proved that Greg's position is center. Monroe is a huge double-double, back to the basket pivot whose man to man defense isn't as bad as some here make it out to be. Monroe has soft hands, is a superb passing big, hits his free throws and would, as you say, be molded into a stronger overall player under Phil.

I'd like to see Phil succeed in acquiring another draft pick. I can hear the boos already if and when PJ selects WCS with our #4 pick, yet I am not to comfortable with a PG who hits 55% of his free throws and has a feeble perimeter game, to boot. I see Stein as one of the most unique players in the game—defending every position on the court, emerging as that rim protector who adds double-digit boards to a front-court which would be very strong in this area, and that player whose incredible wingspan and athleticism would give the Knicks a DeAndre Jordan slam back, tip-in presence. Willie Stein's stock has been rising and some mocks have him at #5.

If Jackson does get that 2nd First Round Pick, one would imagine that Phil and/or his team of scouts may have identified a sleeper. New York could do an MRI of their team and find gaps everywhere yet I am unsure if the team's greatest need is even at PG as Galloway and Shved may be more than capable points. There is also Calderon...

I like the plan you're proposing even though I'm all in on Mudiay. The fact remains: there's plenty of ways to build this team and I trust Phil to build it the right way.

I think you pretty much summed it up in that sentence - plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definetly a possibility: Mudiay Mathews Melo Millsap Monroe

[Carl_Karlson]

Where would phil get this second first rounder? And no thanks on WCS. Not at 4

[Cbrunn2]

Any way Phil could get Terrance Jones from Houston?

I think he'd be the perfect PF next to Monroe

[Huey Freeman]

.....plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definitely a possibility: Mudiay, Mathews, Melo, Millsap, Monroe

How can we do this with our projected cap-space this summer?

Monroe = $15.5MM (FA Max level that he’ll definite receive)

Millsap = $9.5MM (current)...expect NYK to have to shell out AT LEAST $12.5MM/per for him to leave a better winning situation in ATL to sign with NYK. ATL stated that they want to keep him & Carroll…plus they can offer an extra year.

Mathews = $7.2MM (current)... IMHO even after injury he’s going to at least get $5MM from someone ready to take a chance on him.

At a quick glance, that is AT LEAST $33.0MM that we would need to have to make this happen. Am I off-base here?

[dakomish23]

.....plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definitely a possibility: Mudiay, Mathews, Melo, Millsap, Monroe

How can we do this with our projected cap-space this summer?

Monroe = $15.5MM (FA Max level that he’ll definite receive)

Millsap = $9.5MM (current)...expect NYK to have to shell out AT LEAST $12.5MM/per for him to leave a better winning situation in ATL to sign with NYK. ATL stated that they want to keep him & Carroll…plus they can offer an extra year.

Mathews = $7.2MM (current)... IMHO even after injury he’s going to at least get $5MM from someone ready to take a chance on him.

At a quick glance, that is AT LEAST $33.0MM that we would need to have to make this happen. Am I off-base here?

Def can't happen as is and didn't dive into how could it happen. I'm thinking it could happen based on what they're looking for and if we can move Jose. Millsap - 15 Monroe - 12 Mathews - 7?

[digitaldropoff]

.....plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definitely a possibility: Mudiay, Mathews, Melo, Millsap, Monroe

How can we do this with our projected cap-space this summer?

Monroe = $15.5MM (FA Max level that he’ll definite receive)

Millsap = $9.5MM (current)...expect NYK to have to shell out AT LEAST $12.5MM/per for him to leave a better winning situation in ATL to sign with NYK. ATL stated that they want to keep him & Carroll…plus they can offer an extra year.

Mathews = $7.2MM (current)... IMHO even after injury he’s going to at least get $5MM from someone ready to take a chance on him.

At a quick glance, that is AT LEAST $33.0MM that we would need to have to make this happen. Am I off-base here?

You're very on base.....all three guys want to get paid, this will be Milsaps and Mathews last substantial deals, Milsap especially will want to cash in. I could see him asking the same as Monroe, and Mathews will make what he currently makes.

[92Knicksfan93]

I really want Brandon Knight in FA/Trade with Phoenix. He's an excellent fit for the triangle because it solves his issues with decision making, allows him to focus on his strengths: scoring and playing defense along the perimeter, and he's not afraid to take the big shot.

[kej718]

.....plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definitely a possibility: Mudiay, Mathews, Melo, Millsap, Monroe

How can we do this with our projected cap-space this summer?

Monroe = $15.5MM (FA Max level that he’ll definite receive)

Millsap = $9.5MM (current)...expect NYK to have to shell out AT LEAST $12.5MM/per for him to leave a better winning situation in ATL to sign with NYK. ATL stated that they want to keep him & Carroll…plus they can offer an extra year.

Mathews = $7.2MM (current)... IMHO even after injury he’s going to at least get $5MM from someone ready to take a chance on him.

At a quick glance, that is AT LEAST $33.0MM that we would need to have to make this happen. Am I off-base here?

Where did you get those numbers?
This was from a few months ago does anyone have a more recent article like this one?

http://dailyknicks.com/2015/03/15/2015-nba-free-agents-ranking-tier-fit/

Tier 1:

The first tier of NBA free agents is quite rich. While it lacks top superstars, some of the best players in the game will be available.

Big men:

Marc Gasol ($18M) Perhaps the top free agent on the market, Marc Gasol is the quintessential Center for a Triangle loving team such as the Knicks. While it’s unlikely he goes anywhere else this summer.
LaMarcus Aldridge ($17M)
Deandre Jordan ($14M) Deandre Jordan is a very solid option at the five spot. His defensive ability would take a ton of pressure off everyone else on the team. Add Wesley Matthews and Karl Towns and the Knicks are suddenly an elite defensive team. Jordan would be worth every penny of that contract. On top of that, he’s one of the youngest elite players at just 26 years old.
Al Jefferson ($13M) The aging veteran will command a huge salary. Knicks should stay away or they’ll be paying a ton once he starts to decline which could be as soon as next season, despite a great year on a personal level.
Kevin Love ($15M) It’s been reported is not entirely comfortable in Cleveland. If the Cavs don’t reach the finals it’s very likely he could opt out and test the market. As reported on our site, he’s terrific fit for New York and the Triangle.
Draymond Green ($12M)
Paul Millsap ($12M) The only reason why Millsap would leave the best team in the league is if they did not continue their streak in the playoffs. If somehow he was available, the Knicks should not pursue him as he is on the older side at 30. However, his game could fit the triangle so there is a real question mark here.
Wings:

Jimmy Butler ($16M) The young all star is having a true career season. He could be interesting but the Bulls will match anything they can. New York should not spend most of their cap on just one player.
Lebron James ($23M) The king has a player option but let’s not dream here. He’s not a good fit for the triangle and he won’t be coming to the New York Knicks. Should not really be on this list.
Guards:

Goran Dragic ($11M) The Knicks missed out on Dragic at the deadline as they were not willing to give up their 2018 first rounder. We can applaud Phil for not compromising the future for a half season rental. Despite Miami getting him, he’s still playing alongside two aging stars with Wade at 33 and Bosh at 30. It’s possible he tests the market. If so, New York will be attractive. He’s a great fit for the Triangle with his lethal shooting and floor spacing capabilities. The ideal point guard target in my opinion.
Brandon Knight ($13M) Despite many laughable moments, Knight has truly become a great player. He’s young and still has room for improvement. Being restricted, he’ll likely stay put this summer.
Tier 2:

Likely the richest tier of the upcoming class, here is the talent we’re dealing with:

Big men:

Greg Monroe ($12M) Monroe is a definite target. His game fits the triangle well, so look for him to be a prime candidate at under 12 million.
Brook Lopez ($9M) Lopez is a terrific center on the offensive end. He would be a good fit but he’s getting older and is tremendously injury-prone. That could bring his price down to 9 million but the Knicks have to stay away here. Leave to a team that will overpay him.
Robin Lopez ($8M) I believe Robin Lopez is next in line for best fit. After Jordan and Monroe, the next player New York should sign is Robin Lopez. He’s cost effective and terrific rim protector, just imagine pairing him with Towns. He is on the cheaper end, see at 8 or 9 million a year. He’s just 26 and will soon be entering his prime. New York should absolutely sign him if they miss out on Monroe and Jordan.
Tyson Chandler ($10M) Nothing to say here, he’s having a good season and the Knicks should have kept him and dealt him to Phoenix for Dragic. He left in bad terms and will not be coming back.
Wings:

Wesley Matthews ($9M) Despite his injury, Mathews could still cost as much as 9 million considering the terrific season he was having. He’s the guy every Knicks fan hoped Iman Shumpert would develop into. Knicks MUST sign him at shooting guard.
Arron Afllalo ($8M) Arron Afllalo is Mathews’ teammate. Portland likely won’t keep both so there’s actually a decent chance New York can get one of them. Afflalo is a good fit as well but slightly older. At 7-8 million he’s a good signing.
Tobias Harris ($9M) The Long Islander has been linked to the Knicks. He is restricted but is said to be looking to leave the Magic. He is a good 4th or 5th option at power forward for the Knicks. He’s still young and improving but New York shouldn’t over pay for him as he’s not a great defender and a bit undersized.
Guards:

Reggie Jackson ($9M) Linked to Knicks at the deadline, he does not make sense for New York at more than 9 million. Being restricted it’s likely Detroit will match anything.
Rajon Rondo ($9M) Likely leaving Dallas after his incident with head coach Rick Carlisle, he’s a terrible fit for New York and on the decline.
Monta Ellis ($10M) Not sure where he would fit but he’s likely staying in Dallas anyway.

Tier 3:

The Knicks need to make key additions here as well if they want to build a true title contender bench. There is no shame in being in this tier, these are all solid players Phil should seriously consider.

Big men:

Kosta Koufos ($5M) Koufos is currently playing for Memphis where he is the backup for aforementioned Marc Gasol. He’d be solid get if the Knicks miss out on the bigger free agents. However, 5 million is much too steep for a bench player.
Brandon Wright ($4M) Likely a cheaper option, Brandon Wright is not a good defensive player. However his offensive game would be a nice spark of energy off the bench.
Omer Asik ($6M) Omer Asik is having a decent season playing alongside Anthony Davis. His production being decent, he is a possibility if the New York Knicks miss out on the bigger names.
Amir Johnson ($5M) This guy is the heart and soul of Toronto but could walk if the money is right. The New York Knicks shouldn’t overpay him as there will be other options.
Tristan Thompson ($6M) It’s unlikely he’ll leave the Cavaliers, but he is a young player the Knicks could and should consider.
Thomas Robinson ($3M) He’s a cheap option with a lot of potential. Could be good off the bench.
Wings:

Wilson Chandler ($7M) Wilson has been on the Knicks before but was sent away in the Melo package megadeal. He can play the 2,3, and 4 spots. He’s super athletic and plays solid defense on top of great outside shooting. However, he’s likely too expensive to be a sixth man.
DaMarre Carroll ($5M) Having a great one with Atlanta, he would not start due to Carmelo being on the team..however, he would be a very solid sixth man.
Chris Middleton ($6M) Chris Middleton is having a surprisingly good season on the playoff bound young Bucks. He’s very much an option to come off the bench and is a prospect the Knicks could develop. It’s likely they’ll keep him, though.
Guards:

Nate Robinson ($3M) Nate Robinson has played in New York before. He knows the fans and the expectations that come with playing in New York.
Patrick Beverly ($3M) Beverly is starting on the elite Rockets. He’s athletic and can pass well. He’s a good fit for the Triangle despite his size (6’1″) because he can really shoot the ball from outside. Teams double teaming Melo would be giving good looks at the basket. Think of him as possible starter if New York misses out on the other guys, or as luxury bench player.
Iman Shumpert ($5M) Iman was playing very well before he was used as trading chip to get rid of Jr Smith’s contract. He’s now a role player on the Cavaliers. There’s a slim chance he comes back but it’s unlikely as the Knicks did not extend him.
Mo Williams ($4M) Mo Williams has been terrific since traded to Charlotte. He’s been like linked with the Knicks in the past. A real option as backup point guard.
Jeremy Lin ($5M) Jeremy Lin left the Knicks after an incredible run and has been average ever since. His game is perfect for the Triangle and maybe coming back to Gotham is just what he needs. Look for him to be a sixth man or starter if the Knicks miss out.
K.J McDaniels ($5M) The young prospect has had a good season so far. He’ll be looking at a big payday this summer. Likely a bad fit if the Knicks still have Tim Hardaway Jr.

[Besart19]

I would love to see Greg Monroe in New York and, based on last season, Stan Van Gundy proved that Greg's position is center. Monroe is a huge double-double, back to the basket pivot whose man to man defense isn't as bad as some here make it out to be. Monroe has soft hands, is a superb passing big, hits his free throws and would, as you say, be molded into a stronger overall player under Phil.

I'd like to see Phil succeed in acquiring another draft pick. I can hear the boos already if and when PJ selects WCS with our #4 pick, yet I am not to comfortable with a PG who hits 55% of his free throws and has a feeble perimeter game, to boot. I see Stein as one of the most unique players in the game—defending every position on the court, emerging as that rim protector who adds double-digit boards to a front-court which would be very strong in this area, and that player whose incredible wingspan and athleticism would give the Knicks a DeAndre Jordan slam back, tip-in presence. Willie Stein's stock has been rising and some mocks have him at #5.

If Jackson does get that 2nd First Round Pick, one would imagine that Phil and/or his team of scouts may have identified a sleeper. New York could do an MRI of their team and find gaps everywhere yet I am unsure if the team's greatest need is even at PG as Galloway and Shved may be more than capable points. There is also Calderon...

I like the plan you're proposing even though I'm all in on Mudiay. The fact remains: there's plenty of ways to build this team and I trust Phil to build it the right way.

I think you pretty much summed it up in that sentence - plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definetly a possibility: Mudiay Mathews Melo Millsap Monroe

Mudiay/Galloway/Miller
Matthews/Shved/Greek (or Ray Allen)
CarMelo/Brewer/Early
Millsap/Bass/Brand
Monroe/Lou/Aldrich

=> championship

[AlphakirA]

.....plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definitely a possibility: Mudiay, Mathews, Melo, Millsap, Monroe

How can we do this with our projected cap-space this summer?

Monroe = $15.5MM (FA Max level that he’ll definite receive)

Millsap = $9.5MM (current)...expect NYK to have to shell out AT LEAST $12.5MM/per for him to leave a better winning situation in ATL to sign with NYK. ATL stated that they want to keep him & Carroll…plus they can offer an extra year.

Mathews = $7.2MM (current)... IMHO even after injury he’s going to at least get $5MM from someone ready to take a chance on him.

At a quick glance, that is AT LEAST $33.0MM that we would need to have to make this happen. Am I off-base here?

You're very on base.....all three guys want to get paid, this will be Milsaps and Mathews last substantial deals, Milsap especially will want to cash in. I could see him asking the same as Monroe, and Mathews will make what he currently makes.

I thought we have the mid level exception for 5.3 mil? I don't think Matthews would be that cheap but it's certainly possible. That was last year's number too so maybe it's up to 6?

[kej718]

I would love to see Greg Monroe in New York and, based on last season, Stan Van Gundy proved that Greg's position is center. Monroe is a huge double-double, back to the basket pivot whose man to man defense isn't as bad as some here make it out to be. Monroe has soft hands, is a superb passing big, hits his free throws and would, as you say, be molded into a stronger overall player under Phil.

I'd like to see Phil succeed in acquiring another draft pick. I can hear the boos already if and when PJ selects WCS with our #4 pick, yet I am not to comfortable with a PG who hits 55% of his free throws and has a feeble perimeter game, to boot. I see Stein as one of the most unique players in the game—defending every position on the court, emerging as that rim protector who adds double-digit boards to a front-court which would be very strong in this area, and that player whose incredible wingspan and athleticism would give the Knicks a DeAndre Jordan slam back, tip-in presence. Willie Stein's stock has been rising and some mocks have him at #5.

If Jackson does get that 2nd First Round Pick, one would imagine that Phil and/or his team of scouts may have identified a sleeper. New York could do an MRI of their team and find gaps everywhere yet I am unsure if the team's greatest need is even at PG as Galloway and Shved may be more than capable points. There is also Calderon...

I like the plan you're proposing even though I'm all in on Mudiay. The fact remains: there's plenty of ways to build this team and I trust Phil to build it the right way.

I think you pretty much summed it up in that sentence - plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definetly a possibility: Mudiay Mathews Melo Millsap Monroe

I like the sound of this but don't see how we could afford it. How much do you think we could get Mathews for?

[FemaleDogPlease]

Plan A: Sign Aldridge, Sign Mo Williams, resign Aldrich to minimum salary deal.

Plan B: Sign Monroe, Sign Brandon Bass

[DowNY]

#4 & Calderon for #5.
We still get Mudiay while dropping salary of Calderon.
Magic guarantees themselves Porz.

[kej718]

I wouldn't mind bringing Robin Lopez and Playing Melo at PF. With the extra money we could savoe for next years free agents or go after guys like DeMarre Carroll, and Danny Green (I think we would have to move Calderons contract to get them both). Think we could offer $10 mil to each of them?

C-Robin Lopez $10M
PF-Carmelo Anthony
SF-DeMarre Carroll $10M
SG-Danny Green $10M
PG-Emmanuel Mudiay

A pretty solid team on both ends of the court IMO. My bench would be guys like Langston Galloway, Tim Hardaway Jr., Lou Amunson, Cleanthony Early, Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Elton Brand, and Cole Aldrich

[3toheadmelo]

knicks dont need that much talent to reach the finals, knicks just need the right guys around melo and we'll be fine

[kej718]

knicks dont need that much talent to reach the finals, knicks just need the right guys around melo and we'll be fine

We don't just want to reach the finals we want to win it too.

[Esq-4]

.....plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definitely a possibility: Mudiay, Mathews, Melo, Millsap, Monroe

How can we do this with our projected cap-space this summer?

Monroe = $15.5MM (FA Max level that he’ll definite receive)

Millsap = $9.5MM (current)...expect NYK to have to shell out AT LEAST $12.5MM/per for him to leave a better winning situation in ATL to sign with NYK. ATL stated that they want to keep him & Carroll…plus they can offer an extra year.

Mathews = $7.2MM (current)... IMHO even after injury he’s going to at least get $5MM from someone ready to take a chance on him.

At a quick glance, that is AT LEAST $33.0MM that we would need to have to make this happen. Am I off-base here?

Where did you get those numbers?
This was from a few months ago does anyone have a more recent article like this one?

http://dailyknicks.com/2015/03/15/2015-nba-free-agents-ranking-tier-fit/

Tier 1:

The first tier of NBA free agents is quite rich. While it lacks top superstars, some of the best players in the game will be available.

Big men:

Marc Gasol ($18M) Perhaps the top free agent on the market, Marc Gasol is the quintessential Center for a Triangle loving team such as the Knicks. While it’s unlikely he goes anywhere else this summer.
LaMarcus Aldridge ($17M)
Deandre Jordan ($14M) Deandre Jordan is a very solid option at the five spot. His defensive ability would take a ton of pressure off everyone else on the team. Add Wesley Matthews and Karl Towns and the Knicks are suddenly an elite defensive team. Jordan would be worth every penny of that contract. On top of that, he’s one of the youngest elite players at just 26 years old.
Al Jefferson ($13M) The aging veteran will command a huge salary. Knicks should stay away or they’ll be paying a ton once he starts to decline which could be as soon as next season, despite a great year on a personal level.
Kevin Love ($15M) It’s been reported is not entirely comfortable in Cleveland. If the Cavs don’t reach the finals it’s very likely he could opt out and test the market. As reported on our site, he’s terrific fit for New York and the Triangle.
Draymond Green ($12M)
Paul Millsap ($12M) The only reason why Millsap would leave the best team in the league is if they did not continue their streak in the playoffs. If somehow he was available, the Knicks should not pursue him as he is on the older side at 30. However, his game could fit the triangle so there is a real question mark here.
Wings:

Jimmy Butler ($16M) The young all star is having a true career season. He could be interesting but the Bulls will match anything they can. New York should not spend most of their cap on just one player.
Lebron James ($23M) The king has a player option but let’s not dream here. He’s not a good fit for the triangle and he won’t be coming to the New York Knicks. Should not really be on this list.
Guards:

Goran Dragic ($11M) The Knicks missed out on Dragic at the deadline as they were not willing to give up their 2018 first rounder. We can applaud Phil for not compromising the future for a half season rental. Despite Miami getting him, he’s still playing alongside two aging stars with Wade at 33 and Bosh at 30. It’s possible he tests the market. If so, New York will be attractive. He’s a great fit for the Triangle with his lethal shooting and floor spacing capabilities. The ideal point guard target in my opinion.
Brandon Knight ($13M) Despite many laughable moments, Knight has truly become a great player. He’s young and still has room for improvement. Being restricted, he’ll likely stay put this summer.
Tier 2:

Likely the richest tier of the upcoming class, here is the talent we’re dealing with:

Big men:

Greg Monroe ($12M) Monroe is a definite target. His game fits the triangle well, so look for him to be a prime candidate at under 12 million.
Brook Lopez ($9M) Lopez is a terrific center on the offensive end. He would be a good fit but he’s getting older and is tremendously injury-prone. That could bring his price down to 9 million but the Knicks have to stay away here. Leave to a team that will overpay him.
Robin Lopez ($8M) I believe Robin Lopez is next in line for best fit. After Jordan and Monroe, the next player New York should sign is Robin Lopez. He’s cost effective and terrific rim protector, just imagine pairing him with Towns. He is on the cheaper end, see at 8 or 9 million a year. He’s just 26 and will soon be entering his prime. New York should absolutely sign him if they miss out on Monroe and Jordan.
Tyson Chandler ($10M) Nothing to say here, he’s having a good season and the Knicks should have kept him and dealt him to Phoenix for Dragic. He left in bad terms and will not be coming back.
Wings:

Wesley Matthews ($9M) Despite his injury, Mathews could still cost as much as 9 million considering the terrific season he was having. He’s the guy every Knicks fan hoped Iman Shumpert would develop into. Knicks MUST sign him at shooting guard.
Arron Afllalo ($8M) Arron Afllalo is Mathews’ teammate. Portland likely won’t keep both so there’s actually a decent chance New York can get one of them. Afflalo is a good fit as well but slightly older. At 7-8 million he’s a good signing.
Tobias Harris ($9M) The Long Islander has been linked to the Knicks. He is restricted but is said to be looking to leave the Magic. He is a good 4th or 5th option at power forward for the Knicks. He’s still young and improving but New York shouldn’t over pay for him as he’s not a great defender and a bit undersized.
Guards:

Reggie Jackson ($9M) Linked to Knicks at the deadline, he does not make sense for New York at more than 9 million. Being restricted it’s likely Detroit will match anything.
Rajon Rondo ($9M) Likely leaving Dallas after his incident with head coach Rick Carlisle, he’s a terrible fit for New York and on the decline.
Monta Ellis ($10M) Not sure where he would fit but he’s likely staying in Dallas anyway.

Tier 3:

The Knicks need to make key additions here as well if they want to build a true title contender bench. There is no shame in being in this tier, these are all solid players Phil should seriously consider.

Big men:

Kosta Koufos ($5M) Koufos is currently playing for Memphis where he is the backup for aforementioned Marc Gasol. He’d be solid get if the Knicks miss out on the bigger free agents. However, 5 million is much too steep for a bench player.
Brandon Wright ($4M) Likely a cheaper option, Brandon Wright is not a good defensive player. However his offensive game would be a nice spark of energy off the bench.
Omer Asik ($6M) Omer Asik is having a decent season playing alongside Anthony Davis. His production being decent, he is a possibility if the New York Knicks miss out on the bigger names.
Amir Johnson ($5M) This guy is the heart and soul of Toronto but could walk if the money is right. The New York Knicks shouldn’t overpay him as there will be other options.
Tristan Thompson ($6M) It’s unlikely he’ll leave the Cavaliers, but he is a young player the Knicks could and should consider.
Thomas Robinson ($3M) He’s a cheap option with a lot of potential. Could be good off the bench.
Wings:

Wilson Chandler ($7M) Wilson has been on the Knicks before but was sent away in the Melo package megadeal. He can play the 2,3, and 4 spots. He’s super athletic and plays solid defense on top of great outside shooting. However, he’s likely too expensive to be a sixth man.
DaMarre Carroll ($5M) Having a great one with Atlanta, he would not start due to Carmelo being on the team..however, he would be a very solid sixth man.
Chris Middleton ($6M) Chris Middleton is having a surprisingly good season on the playoff bound young Bucks. He’s very much an option to come off the bench and is a prospect the Knicks could develop. It’s likely they’ll keep him, though.
Guards:

Nate Robinson ($3M) Nate Robinson has played in New York before. He knows the fans and the expectations that come with playing in New York.
Patrick Beverly ($3M) Beverly is starting on the elite Rockets. He’s athletic and can pass well. He’s a good fit for the Triangle despite his size (6’1″) because he can really shoot the ball from outside. Teams double teaming Melo would be giving good looks at the basket. Think of him as possible starter if New York misses out on the other guys, or as luxury bench player.
Iman Shumpert ($5M) Iman was playing very well before he was used as trading chip to get rid of Jr Smith’s contract. He’s now a role player on the Cavaliers. There’s a slim chance he comes back but it’s unlikely as the Knicks did not extend him.
Mo Williams ($4M) Mo Williams has been terrific since traded to Charlotte. He’s been like linked with the Knicks in the past. A real option as backup point guard.
Jeremy Lin ($5M) Jeremy Lin left the Knicks after an incredible run and has been average ever since. His game is perfect for the Triangle and maybe coming back to Gotham is just what he needs. Look for him to be a sixth man or starter if the Knicks miss out.
K.J McDaniels ($5M) The young prospect has had a good season so far. He’ll be looking at a big payday this summer. Likely a bad fit if the Knicks still have Tim Hardaway Jr.

I'm sure those numbers have changed for a few players. Is Wilson Chandler even a FA? Mo Williams would be a nice short term pg. Isn't KJ McDaniels a defender? If so, I'm happy to shop THJr. Amir Johnson is another guy I'd like in the front court. Pretty funny if we picked Iman back up - doubt he leave CLE.

[dakomish23]

I like the plan you're proposing even though I'm all in on Mudiay. The fact remains: there's plenty of ways to build this team and I trust Phil to build it the right way.

I think you pretty much summed it up in that sentence - plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definetly a possibility: Mudiay Mathews Melo Millsap Monroe

I like the sound of this but don't see how we could afford it. How much do you think we could get Mathews for?

Really contingent on moving Calderon and THJ. That's 9 mil you open up.

So Millsap / Monroe 14.5 and 7+ to Matthews?

It's not a bad 5 to go to war with especially in the ECF. Defense from Melo and Monroe scares me a bit, but the other 3 should be solid to great. And you can add a fairly big name in 2016 & 2017.

I think the bigger questions are:

1. Is it worth what it might cost us to dump those 2?
2. Is that lineup worth it over having say 45+ (if we sign a bunch of guys to one year / team option deals or trade for salary dump candidates who have one year left to gain assets ie Lee / Jennings / Gibson) one year from now?
3. Is it better to fill out the roster with guys who will come cheaper and have a higher likelihood of outplaying their contracts like a Koufus

I have no clue what PJax has in mind. I just hope he spends wisely that will put us in a better postion to be a contender instead of just a playoff team.

[kej718]

I think you pretty much summed it up in that sentence - plenty of ways to build this team. The M-5 squad is definetly a possibility: Mudiay Mathews Melo Millsap Monroe

I like the sound of this but don't see how we could afford it. How much do you think we could get Mathews for?

Really contingent on moving Calderon and THJ. That's 9 mil you open up.

So Millsap / Monroe 14.5 and 7+ to Matthews?

It's not a bad 5 to go to war with especially in the ECF. Defense from Melo and Monroe scares me a bit, but the other 3 should be solid to great. And you can add a fairly big name in 2016 & 2017.

I think the bigger questions are:

1. Is it worth what it might cost us to dump those 2?
2. Is that lineup worth it over having say 45+ (if we sign a bunch of guys to one year / team option deals or trade for salary dump candidates who have one year left to gain assets ie Lee / Jennings / Gibson) one year from now?
3. Is it better to fill out the roster with guys who will come cheaper and have a higher likelihood of outplaying their contracts like a Koufus

I have no clue what PJax has in mind. I just hope he spends wisely that will put us in a better postion to be a contender instead of just a playoff team.

$10 Mil for each of the 3 free agents
C-Robin Lopez (2014/15 Earnings: $5,340,229)
PF-Carmelo Anthony
SF-DeMarre Carroll (2014/15 Earnings: $2,500,000)
SG-Danny Green (2014/15 Earnings: $4,025,000)
PG-Emmanuel Mudiay


Do you think those guys will get offered more?

[brooklynoxy]

Honestly I'd be excited for Greg Monroe. Dude is only 25 and has been with the **** Pistons his whole career. I'm sure he has a lot to prove, seems humble, and I'm sure would be molded into a stronger player under Phil .

I would love to see Greg Monroe in New York and, based on last season, Stan Van Gundy proved that Greg's position is center. Monroe is a huge double-double, back to the basket pivot whose man to man defense isn't as bad as some here make it out to be. Monroe has soft hands, is a superb passing big, hits his free throws and would, as you say, be molded into a stronger overall player under Phil.

I'd like to see Phil succeed in acquiring another draft pick. I can hear the boos already if and when PJ selects WCS with our #4 pick, yet I am not to comfortable with a PG who hits 55% of his free throws and has a feeble perimeter game, to boot. I see Stein as one of the most unique players in the game—defending every position on the court, emerging as that rim protector who adds double-digit boards to a front-court which would be very strong in this area, and that player whose incredible wingspan and athleticism would give the Knicks a DeAndre Jordan slam back, tip-in presence. Willie Stein's stock has been rising and some mocks have him at #5.

If Jackson does get that 2nd First Round Pick, one would imagine that Phil and/or his team of scouts may have identified a sleeper. New York could do an MRI of their team and find gaps everywhere yet I am unsure if the team's greatest need is even at PG as Galloway and Shved may be more than capable points. There is also Calderon...

I like the plan you're proposing even though I'm all in on Mudiay. The fact remains: there's plenty of ways to build this team and I trust Phil to build it the right way.

It took me a day and a close watch of Mudiay's work-out tape to change my mind about this kid! He is a BIG point guard whose jump shot looks better than Rondo's and everything else about his game is well above average, according to the scouting reports. Like you, I believe in Phil's plan—whatever it ends up being!

I would love the Knicks to get Willie Stein—if Phil can get a second pick, but it will be difficult to get a top 10 one for $3.5 Million, Calderon, and Timmy.