NBA trade rumors percolate with 5 big names allegedly on block right now

PG Dennis Smith Jr., New York Knicks

If there’s any team that belongs in the “seller” category this season, it’s the New York Knicks. They’re among the league’s most noncompetitive clubs despite boasting a number of young, high-upside players on the roster. It’s a mess in the Big Apple, and no one’s surprised.

Still, it could mean they’ll be busy seeking trade partners between now and Feb. 6.

One player believed to be on the block is Dennis Smith Jr. The former top draft pick was dealt to New York last year as part of the Kristaps Porzingis trade, but has yet to assert himself as a long-term asset for the Knicks. With the 2019-20 season already circling the drain, New York seems interested in seeing what they can get for Smith.

As SNY’s Ian Begley asserted, just about everyone on the roster is fair game outside of RJ Barrett. That has opened the door for point-guard-needy teams like the Timberwolves to turn their attention to Smith, who has flashed serious upside during his four years in the NBA.

It’s clear Smith has the talent to be a difference-maker in this league, but his potential is souring in New York. A change of scenery would do him some good, and would likely net the Knicks a reasonable return.