Lamar Odom nearing deal with New York Knicks for next season

Now that Phil Jackson has arrived in New York, he is working on a deal with one of his former players, free agent Lamar Odom, which is expected to be completed this week.

Odom played some of his best years under Jackson in Los Angeles, including receiving the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2011, but has been out of the NBA for some time due to off-court issues. He recently played two games for Spanish team Laboral Kutxa, but returned to the USA after suffering a back injury.

The Knicks believe that Jackson is the best person to help get Odom back on track, and are currently working on a non-guaranteed contract for next season, according to Real GM:

Lamar Odom and the New York Knicks are nearing a deal that includes a team option for next season, according to sources.

Odom is expected to sign this week, barring any unforeseen snags.

By signing Odom to a non-guaranteed contract for next season, the Knicks would want to use the extra time to see if they can get the veteran forward to the point where he could be worthy of a roster spot.

Odom has dealt with off-court issues since his departure from the Los Angeles Clippers last season.

Is Odom another doomed signing for New York, or do you think he could be a contributor to their squad next year? Voice your opinion in the comments below.

AP Photo/Patrick Semansky