New York Knicks Expected to Officially Sign Tyson Chandler, Cut Chauncey Billups

After it became apparent that the New York Knicks didn't have the pieces to trade for New Orleans Hornets point guard Chris Paul, the Knicks were reportedly interested in free agent center Tyson Chandler. Now, it appears as though an agreement between the two sides is inevitable on Friday.

The NBA will formally reopen operations this afternoon, at which time the Knicks will sign the former Dallas Maverick to a deal estimated at four years and $58 million, according to Howard Beck of the New York Times.

Also, in order to create enough cap room to sign the defending NBA champion, the Knicks are expected to use the amnesty clause to rid themselves of point guard Chauncey Billups' $14.2 million contract and trade forward Ronny Turiaf.

Chandler was a major part of the Mavericks' title-winning team last season as he averaged over 10 points, nine rebounds and one block per game during the regular season. He was a great defensive presence all year long and helped stymie the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals.

The Knicks have long struggled defensively, particularly under offensively-minded head coach Mike D'Antoni. The addition of Chandler will give Amar'e Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony even more license to focus their efforts on the offensive end while Chandler provides a massive 7'1" presence in the paint.

As much as the Chandler signing will help the Knicks on the defensive end, they could suffer offensively as the loss of Billups means there is no viable candidate to run the point. Third-year guard Toney Douglas looks to be the best option by default, but he is far from a true point guard.

Billups will have to pass through waivers, and if he goes unclaimed then he will become an unrestricted free agent. That means New York can still bring him back at a reduced price, although that seems fairly unlikely at this point.