Knicks Rumors: Addition of Jeremy Lin Is a Sign That Kenyon Martin Is NY-Bound

When the Knicks brought in the cheap Jeremy Lin, it became clear that they have their eyes set on adding Kenyon Martin later in the season.

According to Marc Berman of the New York Post, Martin was recently bought out of his contract with his Chinese basketball team and will be free to return to the NBA in March.

The Knicks are comfortably over the salary cap, but they do have their $2.5 million roster exception. The fact that they did not use any of that on a guard is a clear indication they have their sights set on adding someone later, and all signs point to that being Martin.

Need for a Guard

The Knicks found themselves with a sudden need for a guard. Baron Davis is going to be out for weeks while he recovers from his back injury.

Mike Bibby is also suffering from back problems and was out of the opener. What really created the backcourt need was Iman Shumpert spraining his MCL.

The Knicks had to add someone.

Lin Signing

Jeremy Lin was signed to a non-guaranteed contract. This means he can be cut at any time, and will be, as soon as Shumpert returns.

The Knicks could have gone after other available guards such as Michael Redd, Keith Bogans or Gilbert Arenas. However, to do that they would likely have to dip into their $2.5 million roster exception.  

The Knicks have other plans for that money.

Martin Rumors

According to Berman, Carmelo Anthony is pushing for the Knicks to sign former teammate and friend Kenyon Martin. He also reports hearing from a source that Martin considers the Knicks his top choice.

This would be an excellent signing for the Knicks.

Why K-Mart Makes Sense

The Knicks have enough talent to be able to weather their early backcourt injuries. They need to keep their eyes on the ultimate prize, which is the playoffs.

There is not another player who will help them in that regard more than Martin. New York is thin in the frontcourt. As it is now, Jared Jeffries is their first big man off of the bench. This is not a playoff-caliber option, and it forces Amar'e Stoudemire into big minutes his knees can't handle.

Martin would give this team an excellent bench option. He will provide valuable rebounding, defense, toughness and experience.

K-Mart will be free to join with enough time to get acclimated to his new team and provide a chance for Stoudemire to lessen his minutes and recoup before the playoffs start.