But signing Drummond post-buyout would conflict with other potential roster moves the Knicks have considered in recent days. That’s not to suggest that New York couldn't change course and sign Drummond, but some in touch with the club over the past week downplayed the possibility of them signing Drummond as a buyout candidate.
The Los Angeles Lakers and Nets also reportedly have interest in signing Drummond if/when he reaches a buyout with Cleveland. So the Knicks, if they indeed have interest in Drummond, will have competition from two championship contenders.
It’s worth noting that the Knicks and Pistons had conversations about a potential Drummond trade prior to the 2020 trade deadline. Nothing materialized and the Knicks later said that Detroit called them about Drummond – not the other way around. They seemingly wanted to distance themselves from the idea that they were pursuing the All-Star big man.
If they signed Drummond following a buyout and then re-signed him to a multi-year deal, it would also impact Mitchell Robinson’s future with the club.
The Knicks can offer Robinson a contract extension this offseason. He is widely seen as one of the top young players on the club. Tom Thibodeau has referenced Robinson’s strong defensive upside whenever he talks about him. So Robinson’s presence is another reason that it would be a bit surprising for the Knicks to sign Drummond this season and then re-sign him to a multi-year deal.
