Lamar Odom Rumors: Fading Star Makes Sense in Knicks Uniform

It might not be especially easy for Lamar Odom to wind up in a New York Knicks uniform, but that doesn't mean he can't try.

The latest word on the disaffected forward apparently has New York atop his preferred options for next season (via Ian Begley's special for ESPN New York):

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But a source with knowledge of Odom's thinking says the New York Knicks would be "on the top of his list" if the Queens native becomes a free agent.

"Lamar is big on being comfortable," the source said. "And New York is somewhere he can be comfortable."

The Knicks' interest in Odom is unclear at this point.

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Comfort isn't the only advantage to being in New York, of course, but after a season with the Dallas Mavericks that never got off the ground, it wouldn't hurt.

Odom spent the offseason upset at the Los Angeles Lakers for hanging him out to dry, and he never found his rhythm in Dallas. After averaging just 6.6 points in 20.5 minutes a contest over the course of 50 games, Odom and the Mavericks agreed to part ways (at least somewhat amicably).

But the Mavericks still retain control of Odom, meaning the team will either have to trade or waive him before he can officially move on.

While it's theoretically possible that New York could swing a trade, there's little doubt the team would prefer to sign him at a reduced rate. Given that Dallas would still owe him $2.4 million in the event he's cut loose, Odom might be willing to accept such a deal—especially if it meant getting his career back on track.

If he can eventually find his way to the Knicks, there's reason to believe he'd make for a good on-court fit.

The Knicks could use a power forward who can rebound, pass and spread the floor—at his best, Odom fits that profile as well as anyone.

With Amar'e Stoudemire crowding Carmelo Anthony's preferred floor space and Jared Jeffries an epic liability on the offensive end, Odom could find himself a niche in the rotation. He also has a wealth of postseason experience and could become something of a sixth man for head coach Mike Woodson.

For now, we have nothing more than a report about Odom's frame of mind, but hopefully the Knicks will find a way to bring Odom into the fold. If he comes inexpensively, it's worth a shot.