Could the Knicks send Amare Stoudemire packing?
When Phil Jackson agreed to be team president and Carmelo Anthony re-signed with the franchise, the New York Knicks had a plan in place: in the immediate future, they hoped to add another superstar alongside Anthony as they hoped to compete in the Eastern Conference.
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Because of salary cap reasons, this particular dream would have to wait until the summer of 2015 when the books cleared and the Knicks are in position to offer a maximum contract to a free agent. But as Michael Sotto of Sheridan Hoops writes, this could all come true this season if the Knicks can find a willing for Amar’e Stoudemire and Andrea Bargnani, both of whom have expiring contracts.
"After making his initial moves, Jackson will continue building a championship roster around Anthony.With Amar’e Stoudemire and Andrea Bargnani in the final year of their contracts, expect both players to be shopped – but only as cap clearing pieces in return for a star from a rebuilding team."
While the possibility exists, it seems unlikely Bargnani and Stoudemire could lead to a star at the trade deadline (a name who will turn up throughout the season is Boston Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo). If anything, the most likely scenario for the Knicks in regard to the two forwards’ availability would be dumping their large salaries for draft picks — the 76ers remain a possibility after rumors emerged this summer.
It will be interesting to see how Phil Jackson handles this situation. Regardless of what he does, a superstar could be awaiting him, either this season or in the summer following.
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