Rumored trade target No. 4: Victor Oladipo
A team’s trade targets usually undergo seasonal change, meaning that a current list may contain entirely different names than the ones the team had in mind one or two months ago. One thing that hasn’t changed for the New York Knicks, is their desire for Victor Oladipo.
Dating back to his Indiana Pacers days, the Knicks were first rumored to be interested in Vic even before his recovery after his ruptured tendon injury. Apparently, his move away to the Houston Rockets hasn’t affected the team’s goals regarding him.
That is mainly because teams do not believe the Rockets are willing to hold onto him long-term. He is a player with a history of injuries and approaching the age of 30. They, on the other hand, are now in a rebuilding process which renders Oladipo’s presence superfluous. Even he thinks so.
ESPN Sources: Houston Rockets guard Victor Oladipo recently turned down a two-year, $45.2M contract extension, most the franchise is eligible to offer him now. https://t.co/Tl0Q4Gi6zy
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) March 1, 2021
After this list of negatives, why should anybody trade for Oladipo? First of all, he is still at an All-Star level, or at least one step below that, following his injury. He is a player that can provide in both ends of the court and can deliver in clutch moments when called upon.
On top of that, he is on an expiring team-friendly contract, meaning that almost any team can work out the financial point of view to acquire him. The New York Knicks could also entice the Rockets into accepting a trade for Victor by sending Kevin Knox and draft picks their way.
Oladipo can help boost RJ Barrett’s development process and shape him into the player he once was during his Indiana All-NBA days. Given his smaller-than-ever price tag, any team would be lucky to get their hands on a player like Oladipo.
Verdict: Pursue Victor Oladipo