5 Dream Targets For New York Knicks In 2017 NBA Free Agency

Danilo Gallinari, SF, Denver Nuggets

Based on Phil Jackson’s recent comments, Carmelo Anthony’s time with the Knicks is nearing its end. If that is true, New York is going to need a new small forward to take over as the serious scoring threat Anthony has been for the last seven seasons.

While Danilo Gallinari isn’t exactly the same type of star, he can absolutely help make up for the scoring they’d lose by parting with Anthony. As we saw throughout the 2016-17 season, Gallinari can light up from the field when he gets going. Just ask the impressive 62.2 true shooting percentage he put up for the Nuggets.

However, after Denver made some efforts to trade him at the deadline, it appears his time with the team is up. So why not follow in Carmelo’s footsteps by joining the Knicks, replacing him in the process? It seems like an ideal fit for both parties–Gallinari lands with a talented team and New York gets their fiery scorer on the wing.

In the end, this all comes down to whether or not Anthony is still on the roster next season. At this point, though, it only appears to be a matter of time before Jackson finds a way to unload the future Hall of Famer. If that happens, the Knicks better push for a chance to sign Gallinari.