KNICKS GET WILCOX
The New Yorks acquired power forward/center Chris Wilcox from the Oklahoma City Thunder for power forward Malik Rose.
What does it give the New York Knicks
The Knicks are unloading many of the players that were part of the unsuccessful Isiah Thomas regime, and Rose is the latest. Now 34, he has barely played this season and was not a great fit for the speed-based system new bench boss Mike D'Antoni brought in. Wilcox, however, is perfect for it; a highly explosive and mobile big-man who can run the floor and finish with authority. Wilcox's contract expires after this season, so if he doesn't work out then the Knicks can add another player to replace him (or use his cap space in another, bigger deal). If he does work out, he gives the Knicks a better chance at the playoffs this season backing up Al Harrington and David Lee up front.
What does it give the Oklahoma City Thunder
The key for the young and still-building Thunder here is Rose's expiring contract. His $7.6475 Million deal won't be part of the team's salary cap next season, and while Wilcox's wouldn't have been either, Wilcox makes almost $900,000 less than Rose (so Oklahoma City will have that much more cap space). Don't expect Rose to play much of a role for the Thunder the rest of the way. Wilcox came back to the Thunder after his earlier trade to New Orleans (involving Tyson Chandler) was rescinded.
Fantasy impact
