Knicks Rumors: Can Phil Jackson Land Kevin Durant?

Dec 10, 2014; San Antonio, TX, USA; New York Knicks power forward Amar’e Stoudemire (behind) reacts after receiving a technical foul against the San Antonio Spurs during the first half at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

1. Manage Cap Space

A common theme for the New York Knicks has been the premature distribution of flexibility-breaking contracts. Such has been the case with players ranging from Allan Houston and Amar’e Stoudemire to Jerome James.

The No. 1 priority in the chase for Kevin Durant is simple: don’t overestimate how high the salary cap will rise under the new television deal.

Leave room for financial flexibility.

According to Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated, Durant’s next contract could be a record-setting one.

"Thunder officials understand there are no guarantees with Durant. They know they can offer the most money — several executives believe a max deal for Durant in the new TV revenue-infused market in 2016 could be worth in the neighborhood of $200 million over five years — and they believe Durant likes playing in Oklahoma City. “I think he likes his teammates,” said Brooks. “That’s always important.”"

If that proves to be the case, the Knicks would require massive amounts of cap space available to make a comparable offer.

Rather than handing out mega-millions to the best available talent, the Knicks must target the players who fit their vision. That includes more affordable options who may lack star power.

If New York is to dish out another $100 million contract, it must be to someone who’s worth it. They’ll not only complement Carmelo Anthony, but will eat into the 2016 salary cap.

Phil Jackson has been methodical. The 2015 offseason isn’t the time to move away from that.

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