Ghost of Christmas Future
Before we close this Summer out let's take a look at the 2011 FA prizes! NOT OTP but since we are in rebuild mold it's nice to be aware of what is out there to help our Knicks that will have Cap space for a Max in 2011.
Carmelo Anthony (ETO): Provided he turns down Denver's three-year extension for $65 million and opts out after this season, Melo is the King of 2011. It's a risk, considering the probable salary changes ahead in the next CBA. New York won't be the only suitor for the All-Star small forward.
David West (ETO): Depending on what happens with Paul, this two-time All Star could beat his celebrated teammate out the door in New Orleans.
Shane Battier: Consummate team player and standout defender for Houston who would play an important part on any playoff contender.
Caron Butler: Looking to bounce back for another big payday after a somewhat disappointing campaign. If not, likely trade bait for Dallas come February.
Glen Davis: Is Big Baby ready for a bigger role somewhere other than Boston or willing to wait and eventually slip into the shoes worn by Kevin Garnett?
*****J.R. Smith: Worth the headaches? Denver's sixth man has all the physical tools and is one of the league's deadliest bombers when's he on.
Headliners
Chris Paul (ETO): CP3 isn't a free agent now? Memos and warnings aside, courting clubs will spend the next two years lining up, a la LeBron. The question for the Hornets' new front office: Do they wait it out and risk losing the league's best point guard for nothing in return or, unlike Toronto and Cleveland, broker a deal to get value back?
Deron Williams (ETO): The league's other best point guard could hold Utah's competitive existence in the balance or build a legacy reminiscent of John Stockton. Money and where the Jazz stand in the Western Conference are sure to come into play.
Props to RealGM for most of the info here. I truly question if we have to wait until 2011-12. ANTHONY RANDOPLH will be an X-Factor this year. If he and some of our trade chips play well, you'll see a BLOCK BUSTER trade way before the deadline in 2010!
