nychamp wrote:If he's still healthy and physically good to go, David West is an ideal big man to have on the roster. I have always appreciated his toughness and old school big man values. In the Oakley mold, including the solid 20 footer. I had had the impression though that he had slowed down, rendering him diminished.

This is all true. But he brings so much more to the team in a leadership aspect, which the Knicks desperately need.

Andre Miller, Matt Barnes could be some players that could do the same on VET MIN DEALS if you want that type of role, while providing leadership and toughness
I don't know but a few years ago I had some doubts

It like KG, his "weight, leadership" faded as his minutes and age/injuries caught up to him while he was the BIG reason for Boston's ring and ability to challenge for the RING FOR A GOOD COUPLE YEARS
Though you still need talent and defensive players to play with him, he was not only a physical leader, defensive anchor, but also pushed the right buttons and WORKED HARD which had a huge affect for Boston's turn around with players like James Posey, Tony Allen, Kendrick Perkins *was once good* ,Big Baby, even Rajon Rhondo actually was a good defender till he got lazy when Avery Bradley did all the dirty work for him
Along with elevating players like Paul Pierce/Ray ALlen/Rhondo pushing each other as well to compete whether on the court or off the court, though Rhondo's ego and STAT LINE got in his head
Must credit Doc Rivers and Tom Thib's too though

I do not have much faith in our coaching staff, development staff, and trainers, I feel we HAVE TO SPEND THE MONEY and target the right guys with KP
Anthony Davis's trainer, with maybe Rasheed Wallace or/and Robert Horry as development coach

Again, I really like Bobby Portis as well and feel Jermaine Oneil would be PERFECT as a mentor for him!
Do not mind Lavoy Allen if he is cheap, or Mike Muscula if we can sign him to a contract, he was a late 2nd rounder, so I think he is a RFA this summer?