The New York Knicks, who're reportedly buying out the contracts of Beno Udrih and Metta World Peace, could pursue former Indiana Pacers forward Danny Granger if the Philadelphia 76ers buy him out. Granger is a "veteran of intrigue," the New York Post reports.
After failing to trade Udrih and World Peace before the deadline, the Knicks decided to buy out their contracts. Knicks coach Mike Woodson confirmed on Saturday agreements with the two veterans were close to being completed.
"I can't say anything went wrong," Woodson said, via the New York Daily News. "Again, they weren't in the rotations. I'm not going to linger on it. We're buying them out. As a coach guys work for me. I wish them nothing but the best as they move on. And we're going to move on. So that's about the extent of it."
The buyouts, which are expected to be finalized on Monday, give the Knicks two roster spots to fill as they struggle to remain in playoff contention. A target for one of the spots may be Granger.
"The Knicks could decide to sign a younger D-League player to develop for the future, but a veteran of intrigue is Danny Granger, should he be waived by the 76ers," Marc Berman of The Post wrote on Sunday.
Although Philadelphia is reportedly open to buying out Granger's contract, the 30-year-old veteran may not be interested in signing with New York. Granger is believed to want to play for a title-contending team, and with the Knicks five games out from the No. 8 seed, he could ultimately choose a suitor who's more championship-ready.
The Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Los Angeles Clippers are among the teams reportedly interested in Granger - if Philadelphia chooses to buy out his contract.
Granger is eligible to play in the postseason with another team if he becomes a free agent before March 1; Philadelphia reportedly may have a decision by tomorrow night.
