Jared Jeffries

The Knicks prize Jeffries for his defense, in particular his ability to defend both forward positions as well as some centers and many guards, but as any Knick fan will tell you, offense is not Jeffries’ strong suit. He’ll likely get regular playing time backing Anthony, Stoudemire and Chandler, but don’t expect much in the way of numbers.

A defensive specialist at this point whose expiring contract could have some value in trade.

Mike D'Antoni was so desperate for a defensive presence on the interior, he tried the reed-thin (6-11, 230) Jeffries at center last season. The only real reason for him to crack the rotation this season will be as a trade showcase - Donnie Walsh would dearly love to clear Jeffries $6.8 million player option off the books for 2010.

Isiah Thomas signed Jeffries away from the Wizards in the hope that he'd develop into a Tayshaun Prince-style defensive stopper at the three. Instead, he got yet another example of how not to use the mid-level exception. Jeffries might fare a bit better in an up-tempo offense than he has in the Knicks' halfcourt schemes - but even with the fast-paced Wizards he didn't generate numbers - his career-best in scoring was a mere 6.8 points per game, back in 2004-05. He's also a hideous free throw shooter, laying bricks to the tune of a 52.7 percent average from the line.

A broken wrist kept Jeffries out until December and he never showed much once he did return. When he’s on, Jeffries can defend three positions and does a lot of the little things well. Unfortunately for fantasy owners, those little things don’t include score. His defensive skills could get him a prominent role on a team in need of it: particularly in the starting lineup.

Jeffries was actually the starting power forward for the Wizards last season and put up modest numbers of 6.8 PPG and 4.9 RPG. His statistical upside is very limited due to all the talented scorers ahead of him on the Wizards. In addition, his starting power forward spot is likely to be taken by Jamison, leaving him with reserve minutes. Even then, Jeffries will usually be the fourth or fifth option on offense when he is out on the court unless its garbage time.

Jeffries, who was selected 11th overall by the Wizards in the 2002 NBA draft, missed most of last season with a torn ACL. His knee has recovered and he will have a chance to get into the mix at small forward. A skilled perimeter player at both ends of the floor, Jeffries may struggle to find a position at the NBA level. His combination of height (6-11) and lateral quickness make him a difficult matchup for defenders.