Report: Knicks' Jackson Told Rose He's Targeting Durant In Free Agency
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A day after the Knicks added one former MVP, they are reportedly setting their sights on another.
Knicks president Phil Jackson told newly acquired point guard Derrick Rose that he plans to pursue Oklahoma City Thunder small forward Kevin Durant in free agency next month, a source told the New York Daily News' Frank Isola.
Of course, Durant will be highly coveted this summer. The Thunder, Washington Wizards, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs and Golden State Warriors are among the teams who might be interested in the seven-time All-Star.
But the Knicks can make a stronger pitch to Durant after Wednesday's trade with the Chicago Bulls for Rose. A starting lineup that includes Rose, Durant, Carmelo Anthony and Kristaps Porzingis would at least catapult New York into the discussion of contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Oklahoma City, however, can offer Durant a five-year contract starting at $25 million per season with 7.5 percent in annual increases. Other teams can offer him a four-year deal for $25 million annually, but with only 4.5 percent raises. The Knicks have about $30 million to spend.
League sources told ESPN last month that Durant's admiration of Porzingis, who he called a "unicorn" last season because of his rare combination of skills, and his friendship with Anthony could factor into Durant's view of the Knicks.
Durant, 27, was voted MVP following the 2013-14 season. This past season, he averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds and 5.0 assists per game.