NBA Free Agency Rumors: Did Phil Jackson Tell Derrick Rose That the Knicks are Going After Kevin Durant?

Jun 24, 2016 08:58 AM EDT

After getting Derrick Rose from the Chicago Bulls, the New York Knicks are reportedly planning on signing Kevin Durant, who is expected to become a free agent in July. According to reports, this is according to the team's president Phil Jackson.

In what appears to be an attempt to make Rose feel more comfortable with the Knicks by bringing in another high profile player, Bleacher Report noted that Jackson told the former Bulls point guard that the teams is aiming to get Durant once free agency begins on July 1.

As reported by the news site, the Knicks currently have around $30 million in cap space, which is more than enough to cover Durant's maximum contract for a full season in the NBA.

Of course, given Durant's status in the league, other franchises will most likely go after him once he leaves the Oklahoma City Thunder. In other words, the Knicks can expect to face tough competitions against other teams that are also vying for Durant's signature.

One of those is the Golden State Warriors, which were able to put up quite a fight against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2016 NBA Finals series. Even though they lost to LeBron James and his crew, Golden State can still be a good destination for Durant especially since he'll be playing with the likes of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.

But then again, the Knicks may be prepared for this type of scenario. ESPN pointed out that they made their first move by getting Rose. Although he's performance during has dwindled within the last few season due to various injuries, Rose is still an asset who can considerably improve the team's backcourt plays.

This can be considered as an incentive for Durant who's looking to join a team with a strong roster. Another factor that can help the Knicks' cause is its current lineup. According to various league insiders, Durant is very fond of New York's power forward Kristaps Porzingis, who can certainly assist him in his plays. In addition, he's friends with fellow small forward Carmelo Anthony, who can help ease his transition with the Knicks.

Of course, it is not yet clear if the Knicks will be able to secure Durant but fans can expect that the New York team will do whatever they can to get him. After all, they need someone to replace Robin Lopez, who was traded to the Bulls in exchange for Rose.