Joakim Noah (Photo : Reuters/Dennis Wierzbicki)
The New York Knicks, who are set to have the worst finish in franchise history, could be in position to add an All-Star caliber talent via free-agent this summer, especially if the Kevin Love-Cavaliers drama continues to get out of control, according to veteran NBA writer Frank Isola.
In his latest article on the New York Daily News, Isola put Love's current situation in Cleveland into focus and provided a scenario that could bode well for the Knicks' rebuilding plan this offseason.
Isola stated that Love's growing frustration over his third-wheel role with the Cavaliers may prompt the All-Star power forward to opt out from the final year of his contract and test the free-agency market. The Knickerbockers, who already made a series of salary-saving moves to create enough cap space this summer, are one of several teams linked as potential suitors for Love.
"Love may very well be back on the open market as a free agent this July, which is good news for Phil Jackson, who has available cap space and just about 12 available roster spots to fill," Isola stated in his piece.
Isola added that big market teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics and the Knicks would surely pique Love's interest; however, the Knicks apparently have some edge over the other teams because they already have a bonafide All-Star in Carmelo Anthony and a top-5 pick that could turn into a good prospect.
"In theory, a high draft pick, a healthy Carmelo Anthony and the addition of Love is a huge upgrade over what the Knicks are throwing out on the court these days."
"The Knicks are the type of big-market team that appeals to Love. The Lakers and Celtics would also be in the mix if Love decides not to return to the Cavaliers after just one season as the third wheel in Cleveland."
The 26-year old Love is averaging 16.5 points and 10.0 rebounds in 33 minutes per game this season - the worst statistical line since his second season with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
