Ford is the first point guard profiled for the not unlikely, but not highly likely to sign with New York this year list. Ford made $8.5 million last season.
Point Guard
Played Last Season With Pacers.
6'0'' 165lbs. 28. Career averages of 11.4 PPG and 5.9APG. (5.4/3.4)
Ford is probably the only guy I like on this list of point guards, however he is also the least likely to take a pay cut to back up Chauncey Billups for 1 year. He is currently playing in Croatia, but he has stated that he is coming back to play this season in the NBA. All signs point to him not resigning with the Pacers, meaning that he will be in the market. The question is: what would make a serviceable point guard take a contract length and pay cut to play on the Knicks. Well I am glad you asked. Ford has recently seen his stock drop due to nagging injuries and clashing with players in the clubhouse. He has publicly stated that he is willing to take a smaller back-up role and he is in desperate need for a PR makeover. Perhaps the Knicks can convince him that one great year in New York will rebuild his name enough that he can benefit from a free agent bonanza in 2012.
So, assuming this works, what does Ford bring to the table. He is an old school point guard; in the sense that he handles the ball well, is not a prolific scorer and likes to sit back and let his teammates do the scoring. From a skill set standpoint he is a perfect fit for the Knicks. I place Ford in the mold of a small Jamaal Tinsley or Raymond Felton. Cross your fingers.
Player most likely waived to make room for this player: Andy Rautins.
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