Knicks Looking at Gortat

From the NY Post:

Though the Knicks likely will take a combo-type guard in the June 25 NBA Draft, Knicks team president Donnie Walsh will eye a center with his $5 million mid-level exception during free agency, and Orlando's 7-foot backup Marcin Gortat is very high on his list, The Post has learned.


The Knicks had no interior defensive presence, and that's Gortat's strength. He also blocks shots and rebounds. (The Knicks were last in blocked shots the past two years).

The Polish big man originally was drafted by coach Mike D'Antoni's Suns in the second round of 2005, but they traded his rights. Gortat probably will not be re-signed because he plays a smallish role as Dwight Howard's backup and the Magic can't pay him accordingly.


I like Marcin Gortat. He's been great in the playoffs coming in for Dwight Howard. The Knicks need a center and it looks like he could be a nice fit. But I can't help but think that signing Gortat would be a precursor to David Lee's exit from New York. Lee is a top 5 power forward in the Eastern Conference, and while he has a big payday coming to him, it's worth it. But it looks like they won't re-sign him.

The Detroit Free Press is saying that Lee could be headed to Detroit. In return, I'd assume the Knicks could get Kwame Brown or Jason Maxiell, both of whom have expiring deals after the 2009/2010 season. Rodney Stuckey would be optimal. After a breakout season, New York could definitely use him.

Speaking of point guards, RealGM says:


According to a report from Yahoo-Eurosport, the Knicks will acquire Sergio Rodriguez in a draft night trade.

Sources from the Knicks say the two sides have had a deal agreed upon for almost three weeks.

Mike D'Antoni is reportedly driving the interest in the Portland point guard.


There are so many more point guards to consider before Sergio Rodriguez. Donnie Walsh... I am disappoint.

But if Lee does stay with Gortat, they could make a very good pairing in the Knicks frontcourt.


--Max Caster