The Knicks' hiring of former Magic and Blazers executive John Gabriel only underscores Donnie Walsh's stated plan -- to get enough cap room for a major acquisition by the summer of 2010.
Gabriel has been hired to a newly created position called director of pro scouting and free agency. His primary duties will be evaluating current NBA talent and recommending future trades and signings.
Gabriel's hallmark with Orlando was clearing a massive amount of cap space, which allowed the team to acquire Tracy McGrady and Grant Hill. This earned him executive of the year honors for the 1999-00 season.
After he was fired by Orlando in 2004, Gabriel went to Portland and cleaned out a closet full of massive contracts, egos, and bad apples to set the table for what is now one of the best-run front offices -- with one of the most promising rosters -- in the league.
If you didn't believe Walsh was committed to getting under the cap in time for the free-agent bonanza in the summer of 2010, this confirms it.
The Knicks also have hired Misho Ostarcevic -- Walsh's international scout with the Pacers -- as director off player personnel.
Comments (2)
I agree Ken great call by Donnie and good anaylsis on your end. The job in NY may be even tougher than what he saw in Orlando and Portland. I don't envy trying to rebuild in NY.
Actually, the Knicks are in a nice position now since the Mets/Yanks/Jets/Giants will take most of the attention away from them on the NY sports scene. Not that Walsh cares (he shouldnt care) but the media glare will be a little lighter on the Knicks.