So at long last, Al Harrington is on a proverbial train to New York City to join Mike D'Antoni's gonzo attack. Is it a good deal for the 'Bockers? Well, that depends on the source. Newsday reports Jamal Crawford, the best Knick guard, is the return piece for Golden State. The New York Post's Peter Vescey, on the other hand, has sources who indicate the Warriors have accepted only Malik Rose, a bench-warming expiring contract, in return. (Mutoni reminds us of the last Vescey-reported trade, which never happened.)
But really, it's a strong deal for the Knicks regardless of the piece. Jetting away Rose is better news for this year's win-loss tally -- without Crawford, D'Antoni might really have to play Stephon Marbury! -- but losing Crawford helps in the summer of 2010. Some have suggested Jam might opt out of his final two years and $19.3 million when his early termination option arrives this summer. Fat flippin' chance. If Ben Gordon can't make $10-12 million in this market, Jam Crawford ain't doing it.
A Harrington-Crawford swap gets Donnie Walsh theoretically within reach of a 2010 max contract for a player with 7-8 years of experience (that covers LeBron, Wade, Bosh and Amare). That doesn't account for New York's next two years worth of draft picks or David Lee, so clearly there's a bit more paring left. But if this is indeed the deal, there's no overwhelming need to cut Zach Randolph free any longer. The Knicks can be 2010 players with him.
UPDATE: Rarely wrong Marc Stein of ESPN.com reports that it's Crawford.
Knicks Land Al Harrington For Either Best N.Y. Guard or Cap Relief originally appeared on NBA FanHouse on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 12:32:00 EST . Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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