It's Official: Knicks Sign Veteran Point Guard Baron Davis
NEW YORK (WFAN/AP) -- Baron Davis, welcome to the Big Apple.
The veteran point guard has signed a contract with the Knicks, the team announced on Monday.
Carmelo Anthony was ready to welcome Davis into the fold after practice Sunday.
"I know (Davis) really well and I would love to have him if we have a chance to get him," said Anthony. "Everyone knows what he can do when he's healthy and when he's focused."
It's unknown when Davis will play, as he's been sidelined all preseason by a bulging disc in his back. But he'd be worth the risk if healthy.
According to the New York Post, the Knicks are "convinced he will be back this season." After reviewing his medical records, the team feels Davis can be back on the court in one month -- not the 8-to-10 weeks advertised by the point guard's agent, the paper reported.
"When BD is healthy, he is one of the best," said Anthony.
The Post also reported that a phone call between Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni and Davis on Saturday effectively sealed the deal.
"There were times he was the best point guard in league," D'Antoni said. "I think a lot of depends physically, and if he wants to be here. If those are positives, it could turn into a good thing."
Davis was waived last week by the Cleveland Cavaliers and designated as their amnesty player. He was not claimed and chose the Knicks, who were seeking more backcourt depth after waiving Chauncey Billups with the amnesty clause. New York had already signed another veteran point guard, Mike Bibby.
The Knicks are prepared to go with Toney Douglas as their starting point guard, but the third-year player is inconsistent, shooting just 2 for 6 for five points in New York's 92-83 exhibition victory over New Jersey on Saturday.
D'Antoni hasn't been shy lately about channeling his inner Rex Ryan. The coach let Knicks fans in on his lofty expectations during an interview with WFAN's Mike Francesa Friday.
"If it all comes together, why can't we compete for a championship?" he told Francesa. "We do have the ability, I think, to win it all."
Will Baron make an impact on the Knicks? Will he be back at all? Sound off below...
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