The New York Knicks are expected to pursue veteran playmaker Chris Paul, especially if their latest gamble on former NBA MVP Derrick Rose doesn't pay off this coming season, a source close to situation told Yibada Sports.
The Knicks pulled off one of the biggest gambits this offseason by sending Jose Calderon, Brook Lopez and Jeriah Grant for Rose. The Knickerbockers have been looking for a capable playmaker for quite some time, and they are pinning their hope on Rose to regain his old form prior to injuries.
Several NBA analysts, including die hard Knicks fan Stephen A. Smith, heavily criticized the latest Phil Jackson's experiment, believing the acquisition of Rose didn't improve the Knicks' standing at all as the former NBA MVP is just a shell of his former self.
However, whether the Derrick Rose gamble pays off or not, the Knicks are guaranteed to have the financial flexibility, all thanks to Rose's $21 million expiring contract. A big year for Rose will surely give him the leverage to ask more money on the table.
On the other hand, if Rose fails to live up to expectation, the Knicks can easily get him off the hook and look for a more reliable playmaker in next year's free-agency market. According to a team insider, the Knicks have already set their sight on few free-agents, one of which is All-Star playmaker Chris Paul.
Paul is coming off another great statistical year, averaging 19.5 points and 10 dimes per game to earn All-Star and All-NBA second team selection. However, with the Los Angeles Clippers' championship window closing along with Blake Griffin's impending free-agency, there's a very high possibility Paul will switch jersey next summer.
The Knicks, who can create over $21 million in salary cap next offseason (according to Basketball Insider cap analyst Eric Pincus), are believed to be very interested in pairing Paul with up-and-coming big man Kristap Porzingis and his buddy Carmelo Anthony.
The 31-year old Paul might have lost some of his athleticism, but his top-level playmaking abilities along with his leadership would be vital for a playoff-hungry team like the Knicks.
Unfortunately for New York, Paul is expected to draw interest from other ball clubs as well, including his current team the Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs, Boston Celtics and the Cleveland Cavaliers.