Knicks Rumors: Latest Buzz Surrounding New York's Offseason

The New York Knicks organization finds itself in a pivotal offseason in 2013. 

After getting to the second round of the NBA playoffs despite a lineup that was consistently hobbled by injuries, getting healthy and adding a few necessary pieces to contend next year will be of the utmost importance. 

With the draft quickly approaching, the Knicks will have the opportunity to add another piece to the puzzle and make the roster a bit younger. 

Here's a look at the latest rumblings surrounding Carmelo Anthony's injury and the No. 24 pick in the NBA draft. 

Carmelo Anthony's Shoulder Improving; Surgery Still Remains Option

One of the most important goals of the Knicks offseason has to be to ensure that Carmelo Anthony is as healthy as possible to kick off the 2013-14 campaign. 

According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, Anthony underwent an MRI at the end of the season that revealed a small tear in his left shoulder. 

The report states that Anthony's shoulder is "improving", however surgery hasn't been ruled out for the star forward. The team would like to see if 3-4 weeks of rest would solve the issue, and will reassess their options soon.

Draft Buzz

"Strong Affinity" for Tony Mitchell

With just under a week until the NBA draft goes down in Brooklyn, the draft buzz is really starting to pick up. Several prospects have been linked to the Knicks with the No. 24 pick in the first round—Tony Mitchell appears to be a front runner. 

ESPN's Chad Ford reports that the Knicks brass has a "strong affinity" for the power forward from North Texas. 

Consistent production off the bench in the front court was an issue all of last season. Mitchell averaged a double-double as a freshman at North Texas before seeing a slight dip in his production last season. He averaged 13.0 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. 

Gorgui Dieng Also in the Mix

Mitchell isn't the only big man the Knicks have shown interest in. As Ian Begley of ESPN New York reports, the Knicks recently brought the Louisville Cardinals center in for a workout. 

Dieng would also make a lot of sense for the Knicks at No. 24. He's a rangy shot-blocker that plays with hustle. 

He could turn out to be the ideal long-term replacement for Tyson Chandler.