Shawne Williams Chooses Nets Over Knicks

Both the Knicks and Nets have been trying to sign Shawne Williams these past few days, but according to the NY Post, the swingman has decided to accepted New Jersey’s offer: “Shawne Williams is headed to … Jersey. Williams, a Knicks’ small forward off the bench last season, chose to join the Nets over returning to the Garden because of a bigger role that was offered. Williams, 25, who is a close friend of Amar’e Stoudemire, also felt slighted by the Knicks in recent days as they waited on Jamal Crawford’s decision and refused to make Williams an offer. It wasn’t until Crawford said no to the Knicks that they offered Williams their $2.5 million exception. The Nets were able to outbid the Knicks because they are under the salary cap and were desperate for a forward. The Nets offer was two years, $6 million with an opt-out after the first year. It was $1 million more than the Knicks were able to offer. Agent Happy Walters said Williams still debated taking less money from the Knicks because he enjoyed playing their last season, but opted for a potential starting role. Williams actually could start for New Jersey at the 3 position, whereas he would have had to fight for playing time in a crowded Knicks rotation. ‘Shawne made a decision on what’s best for him and his family,’ Knicks forward Amar’e Stoudemire said. ‘We’ll be alright. . We have a solid team with what we have now. We’re comfortable with our roster. He’s not too far away, we’ll see him shortly.'”