It seems the New York Knicks are not yet finished with rebuilding their roster since the team is reportedly preparing to offer Lance Stephenson a minimum contract for the 2016-2017 NBA season. According to reports, the Knicks are planning on bringing in Stephenson as their main weapon against LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Since James is currently the hero of the Cavs since he was the one who was able to lead to Cleveland to its first championship in over 50 years, he has become the main target of various teams. For the Knicks, they were able to use the offseason to build a stronger lineup that can possibly go up against James and his squad.
As noted by Sportsrageous, during the past few months, the New York organization was able to bring in the likes of Derrick Rose, Joakim Noah, Brandon Jennings and Courtney Lee. However, for the Knicks, it seems these players are not enough to turn the team into a deadly title contender next season. According to rumors, the team is planning for further improve its lineup by bringing in free agent Stephenson.
Stephenson has been in the NBA since 2010 when he debuted with the Indiana Pacers. During his last season with the Indiana franchise, he was able to record 13.8 points per game. After his stint with the Pacers he bounced around the league to join various teams including the Charlotte Hornets, Los Angeles Clippers, and Memphis Grizzlies.
However, one of the reasons why Stephenson is still a free agent at this point is because of his on-court attitude. Due to his antics, he has been dubbed as a bad boy on the court who's always ready and willing to agitate his opponents.
But, as Daily Knicks pointed out, this could be what the New York franchise is looking for in a player. With Stephenson on the lineup, he could provide bring in the psychological war and physical aggressiveness to throw off the games of current top players in the league such as James and Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors.
But aside from being a goon, Stephenson also has a lot to offer. For one, he could serve as a better alternative to Jennings since he's a great defender. He could also partner up with Noah to increase the Knicks' defensive presence on the court.
