Knicks reportedly interested in Carlos Boozer

A week ago, New York Knicks president Phil Jackson was talking about Jahlil Okafor when he stated his team wasn’t overly-interested in the center because most players who come from the Duke Blue Devils program underwhelm in the NBA. Apparently, Jackson does not feel that way about Carlos Boozer.

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According to a report by Michael Scotto of Sheridan Hoops, the Knicks are interested in signing the veteran power forward to a deal, while the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets are also in the mix. Over at FanSided’s Knicks Daily, Maxwell Ogden had the following to say about the potential move:

"His reputation has taken a few hits, but Boozer could help the Knicks in the short-term. He makes for an interesting fit in the Triangle Offense as a solid mid-range shooter who can operate from the elbow.When aggressive, Boozer has also proven capable of mastering the pick-and-roll and scoring from the low block."

Without question, Boozer, 33, would give the Knicks an upgrade at power forward. Currently, Carmelo Anthony likes to moonlight at the position although he is much better suited to play at small forward. Boozer would give New York a solid rebounder and someone to help teach some of the younger kids on the squad a few tricks in the pros.

Additionally, Boozer will not be expensive. With his career obviously winding down, the Knicks won’t have to blow a ton of cap space to get some immediate help. Furthermore, this would not likely be a long-term commitment, keeping free-agency dollars open for the 2016 offseason and beyond.

Last year, Boozer played in 71 games for the Los Angeles Lakers and averaged 23.8 minutes per game with 11.8 points and 6.8 rebounds. If Boozer could replicate those numbers for New York, he would be a solid pickup for a team looking to rebuild.