NBA Rumors: Knicks Are Best Fit for Free Agent Kenyon Martin
Former Denver Nuggets forward Kenyon Martin would be a perfect fit with the New York Knicks, and even though he cannot sign a free agent NBA contract until March, his former teammate Carmelo Anthony has reportedly expressed interest in playing with Martin again. According to the New York Post's Marc Berman:
"The Knicks have one roster spot still open entering tomorrow's season opener, and Carmelo Anthony hopes it eventually goes to his former Nuggets teammate Kenyon Martin, according to an NBA source.
According to the source, Anthony wants Martin in New York, though he is not permitted to sign a contract until March, when his Chinese team is through with the playoffs. The rugged forward was bought out earlier this week and was expected home for the holidays.
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The Knicks could use another athletic big man who has playoff experience, and Martin would certainly fit in well with New York's style of play. He plays with toughness and grit, and would give the Knicks' frontcourt more athleticism.
Martin would be a very good backup for Knicks starting power forward Amar'e Stoudemire, who the team would be wise to keep fresh and healthy for the playoffs.
Martin is capable of starting for several NBA teams but as a bench player he would give head coach Mike D'Antoni a veteran who can provide a spark at both ends of the floor and contribute some scoring in addition to his good defense and rebounding skills.
His friendship with Anthony from their Denver days would certainly make his transition to New York a smooth one, and with no championship rings, Martin would be determined to help the Knicks reach the NBA Finals and win the team's first championship since 1973.
The team's open roster spot might be better served by adding a point guard to the mix, but if Baron Davis is effective when he returns from injury, then signing Martin is a no-brainer for the Knicks.
Martin would complete the Knicks roster and make them a strong contender in the East and a team capable of making a deep playoff run this season.
