The Knicks have already strengthened themselves in certain areas by trading RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley for OG Anunoby and Precious Achiuwa, but they are not at the level of the Celtics, Sixers and Bucks. At the same time, thanks largely to the rise of Jalen Brunson, they are closer to the giants in the East than they have been in a long time. That could make them go all in! If there is even a real star available.
Ideally for the Knicks, Donovan Mitchell would have sought an escape from the Cavs early on, but after a disappointing start, they have really taken off despite injuries and are unlikely to be a seller at the deadline. Otherwise, only Zach LaVine is known as a trade candidate; whether he is a real star in his ailing form can also be discussed.
The Knicks have accumulated a lot of draft capital and would happily let go of Evan Fournier with his salary of almost $19 million. The Frenchman has only made three appearances this season and has an expiring contract (since his club option will not be activated).
If the Knicks don’t see an opportunity to go all-in or decide against it, the first thing that will stand out is the lack of depth behind Brunson. Quickley was a constant there for years, but he was sacrificed in the Anunoby trade. This is also why players like Malcolm Brogdon or Bruce Brown are traded to the Knicks; they interpret the role differently, but they are both proven playoff players.
2024-01-26 08:01:00
#Trade #Deadline #Preview #Atlantic #Division #Celtics #Sixers #Knicks #Dennis #Schröder #change #teams
