Knicks: David Lee Open to Another Run in New York
With another period of unrestricted free agency nearing, Dallas Mavericks power forward David Lee is open to a return to the New York Knicks.
From 2005 to 2010, David Lee was one of the few bright spots for the New York Knicks. Selected at No. 30 overall in the 2005 NBA Draft, Lee went on to become the first Knicks draft pick to make an All-Star Game since Mark Jackson in 1987.
Just as he was entering his prime, however, Lee left New York through a sign-and-trade with the Golden State Warriors.
Lee averaged 20.2 points, 11.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.0 steal on 54.5 percent shooting from the field during his final season in New York. The Knicks’ decision to sign Amar’e Stoudemire signaled the end of the Lee era, however, and he thus left for a successful stint with the Warriors.
According to Marc Berman of The New York Post, Lee is open to a return to New York—so much so that he spoke with the Knicks when the Boston Celtics bought his contract out earlier this season.
"“It’s my favorite city in the world as far as spending time there in the offseason,’’ Lee said. “A great organization. I always look back with a positive memory.“[It’s] something we even discussed in the buyout process – had a conversation with them,’’ Lee added. “These next eight games are most important and we’ll deal with that later. … I’ll have some good choices. I’m looking forward to playing three, four more years. I feel my body feels as healthy as ever.”"
If his play with the Dallas Mavericks is a sign of things to come, there’s certainly reason to be intrigued by the prospect of bringing Lee back to New York.
In 18 games with the Mavericks, Lee is averaging 9.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.6 offensive boards in 18.2 minutes of action per game. That’s may be a sign of the 32-year-old’s limitations, but per 36 averages of 19.6 points, 14.9 rebounds, and 5.2 offensive boards are nothing to scoff at.
If Lee can provide New York with what he’s given the Mavericks, he’d clearly be a welcome addition.
Being bought out by the Celtics is one of the best things that’s happened to Lee’s basketball career. It’s pushed him to get back into the physical shape that enabled him to become one of the NBA’s most feared offensive big men.
A two-time All-Star with an All-NBA Third Team appearance on his resume, Lee carved out a reputation as a nightly double-double threat who could help anchor an offense.
Whether or not he’s able to add a third All-Star Game appearance to his tally, Lee can provide positive minutes. He’s not the best defensive player you’ll come across, but his energy on the boards and offensive versatility make him perfectly suited for the role he’s playing in Dallas.
There’s no reason to believe he couldn’t be just as effective in relief of Robin Lopez and Kristaps Porzingis.
Lee is one of the better pick-and-roll finishers of his era, and maintains a high level of effectiveness. He has a decent midrange game, can score from the post in isolation, and is a force on the offensive glass—all traits that make him a perfect fit in the Triangle Offense.
Most importantly, Lee should be available for an affordable cost during the summer of 2016.
If he can be had, should Phil Jackson orchestrate Lee’s return to New York in an attempt to solidify the second unit? Hit the comments section and let us know!