Forward Wilson Chandler wants to re-sign with the New York Knicks
New York Knicks forward Wilson Chandler said that his top priority next summer is to re-sign with New York as a restricted free agent. Chandler, who was drafted
23rd overall in the 2007 NBA Draft, was not offered a contract extension by the squad during the November 1 deadline.
"I'd love to be here,'' Chandler told NBA Fanhouse. "Just the city and just being close
to the people in the organization. I just love being here. I think the future looks great (for the Knicks).''
The lack of an extension means that Chandler may receive offers from other teams next summer with the Knicks having the option to match. However, the team may end
up having to pay a bigger amount than what they would have during the extension deadline.
The former DePaul University standout, who is averaging 17.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.5 blocks (all of which would be career-high averages if they continue to the end of the season),
may end up with a bigger offer if he attracts interest from other teams.
'It's a possibility'
"It's a possibility,'' said Chandler, who produced 23 points and five blocks against the Denver Nuggets on Tuesday . "It can go either way. You don't sign it and
it can lower your value or it can go up.''
Chandler and the Knicks negotiated for an extension until the deadline. The Knicks opted not to offer the 6ft 8in forward a contract due to the collective bargaining
agreement and the team's plan to pursue a big name free agent next summer.
In the interview with NBA Fanhouse, Chandler said that he is not upset about the team's decision.
"With everything that is going on in the NBA (with the possibility of a lockout). It wasn't surprising. Just have a good year this year and hopefully things will work out next year.
It's not like the world's coming to an end."
"It came close, pretty close (to an extension getting done). But it didn't happen, so that's neither here nor there. I just go out and play and don't worry about it, and everything will work
itself out.''
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