New York Knicks: Can They Afford Wilson Chandler's Price Tag in Free Agency?

This offseason, New York Knick Wilson Chandler will become a free agent. New York will be making a difficult choice of bringing him back or not. To me, Wilson Chandler must be kept on the roster at all costs.

At this point in his career, Chandler is showing a lot of potential. In his fourth year in the league, he is putting up impressive averages of 16.8 points, 6.1 rebounds and 1.7 assists. He meshes perfectly with New York's offense, and has become the recipient of many great passes from Raymond Felton.

With and increase in shots, he has increased his efficiency as well. He is shooting at a 46 percent clip, higher than his career field goal percentage of 45 percent.

With good anticipation, he's averaging 1.7 blocks per game.

Increase of productivity also means an increase in pay.

As of now, I personally think Chandler is worth anywhere from eight million to ten million dollars. If Brendan Haywood can make that much money playing off the bench, Chandler is well worth it.

One thing that can affect the New York Knick's decision to keep him is the thought of Carmelo Anthony possibly signing with the team.

Melo has made it clear that New York is his choice of destination, but no one knows how they are going to acquire him. Some suggest that he will be traded for, while others think New York should wait until free agency to sign him.

Signing him in the free agency makes it possible for New York to keep their roster intact.

New York is looking to shed Eddy Curry's giant expiring contract, which should be able to help the team acquire Carmelo Anthony AND keep Wilson Chandler with the team.

That is the best case scenario right now for the team, and fans do not want to let go of Chandler. He has become a fan-favorite, and many fans would be disappointed in losing him.

He brings productivity and flare to the team, and losing him in the free agency will be a big blow to New York.

Wilson Chandler is worth the money, and New York should pursue resigning him and ignore everyone else not named Carmelo Anthony.

Wilson Chandler is just worth all the time and money, and he is an amazing investment.