NBA Rumors: Kenyon Martin Would Turn Knicks into Championship Contenders

The Knicks will make a serious run at the championship if they can add Kenyon Martin, and that is a very real possibility. 

New York is maxed out against the cap, but they have their $2.5 million roster exception, and Martin is reported to have a desire to join the Knicks.

This move would not come without its oddities, as Martin is tied up due to obligations with the Chinese team he signed with during the lockout.

 

K-Mart's Blue Light Special

According to Marc Berman of the New York Post Martin was bought out of contract with his Chinese team. However, he is not free to sign with an NBA team until his Chinese team is done with their playoffs in March.

 

The Rumors

Berman reports hearing from a source that Carmelo Anthony wants Martin in New York. Berman went onto report that, "Martin considers the Knicks his top choice, partly because of his friendship with Anthony."

If these reports are true, there is little standing in the way of Martin becoming a Knick.

 

The 4-1-1 on Martin

Martin is 33 years old, and time has definitely slowed him down. He has had numerous knee injuries over his career. 

However, he can still run the floor, and get up for dunks and blocks.

Last season, in 25.7 minutes per game, K-Mart averaged 8.6 points per game, 6.2 rebounds per game and had a PER of 14.2.

Martin is an efficient scorer—he shot .511 from the field last season. Martin is undersized, but he is strong and provides solid D on opposing power forwards.

As you'll see in the below highlights from Martin's recent game with his Chinese team, it is the Martin we have come to expect: good hops and timing, solid athleticism and the same ugly jump shot.

 

Impact on Knicks

This move will directly address the Knicks' biggest weakness: depth in the frontcourt. As it is now, the Knicks first option to backup Amar'e Stoudemire is Jared Jeffries.

This is far south of ideal for the Knicks—especially considering Stoudemire's suspect knees.

While K-Mart will not be around to help with this for the majority of the season, he will give the Knicks a strong veteran presence coming off the bench. He will be able to play big chunks of minutes to help Stoudemire refresh for the playoffs.

Once the playoffs start, Martin will add big time toughness and defense. He will help turn New York into a complete team.

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/997008-nba-rumors-kenyon-martin-would-turn-knicks-into-championship-contenders

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