Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
The New York Knicks lack many things. Two that really stand out, however, are leadership and strength. Free agent David West would absolutely add those things to the Knicks if he were to join the team. According to a tweet from Bleacher Report’s Jared Zwerling, it’s more likely than not that West will sign with New York.
League source: David West is “very likely” to sign with the Knicks come FA. “He knew that before he chose not to opt in” with the Pacers.
— Jared Zwerling (@JaredZwerling) June 25, 2015
West would add the kind of veteran leadership that the Knicks so desperately need. The last time the Knicks were good, they had a locker room full of seasoned veterans like Jason Kidd, Rasheed Wallace and Kurt Thomas. West is similar to those guys and would become a vocal leader in the Knicks’ locker room. Carmelo Anthony isn’t exactly the most vocal of leaders. Anthony leads more by example, as opposed to directing traffic on the court. He has succeeded most when he has had wise, vocal leaders by his side. His Denver Nuggets team that made it to the Western Conference Finals was led by Chauncey Billups.
West’s natural position is power forward, but in today’s NBA, the Knicks could absolutely use him at center. If West were to play center, Anthony would likely be alongside him at the four — a position where Anthony thrives as a matchup nightmare. West isn’t what you would call a rim protector, but he is a good low-post defender. The Knicks will need guys who are adept on defense, but can also contribute on offense. There is concern about rookie Kristaps Porzingis‘ low-post defense, so adding West would be helpful. Perhaps Porzingis could learn under West since the veteran has had success in the pick-and-pop and rebounding — two things that would help maximize Porzingis’ effectiveness in his first season with New York.
There are concerns about the type of deal the Knicks will give West. At 34 years old, he’s not necessarily commanding a large, multi-year contract. He is also not a very agile big man, so he may be able to be exploited by quicker, more spread out teams. But if the Knicks can add him as a role player for the right price, he could help lead them down the right path.
Patrick Piascik is an NBA Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @patrickpiascik.
