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New York Knicks: 5 players that could be gone before NBA Trade Deadline

By Kenneth Teape

NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 25: The New York Knicks huddle before the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on December 25, 2017 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Matteo Marchi/NBAE via Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 25: The New York Knicks huddle before the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on December 25, 2017 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Matteo Marchi/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks: 5 players that could be gone before NBA Trade Deadline
Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images /

3. Willy Hernangomez

It seems inevitable that the Knicks will trade a center in the next week. While they would love for that player to be Joakim Noah, it is highly unlikely. Instead, it could be the second-year center Willy Hernangomez.

Hernangomez had a strong rookie season. He played in 72 games, starting 22, and averaged 8.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.3 assists in only 18.4 minutes per game. With Enes Kanter taking over the starting spot and Kyle O’Quinn filling in behind him, Hernangomez hasn’t come close to the same production this season.

Hernangomez has spent more time on the sideline watching than playing this season. He has appeared in only 22 games, most of which came during garbage time. However, that has not deterred teams from being interested.

According to The New York Post, Hernangomez is actually the one Knicks player receiving the most interest on the trade market. That shouldn’t be too much of a surprise. Teams are looking to capitalize on the Knicks’ logjam by acquiring a young, cost-controlled center.

Based on his rookie year, there is obvious promise with Hernangomez. He is a great rebounder, has deft touch offensively and has showcased an ability to pass the ball. His defense can use some work, but he is young enough that there is still plenty of time for him to develop.

The Knicks will have to think long and hard about what to do with Hernangomez. Trading him could cause more problems than solutions, as he is best friends with Kristaps Porzingis.

After the debacle Phil Jackson caused this past summer, trading away his best friend and making moves for the future could be the last straw for Porzingis in New York. Hernangomez should remain with the team unless they are blown away with a deal they cannot refuse.

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