3 Potential trade deadline outcomes for the New York Knicks
By Ari Schwartz
Knicks Trade Outcome #1: Go All-In
While a small upgrade can take New York to the playoffs, the Knicks have often been shortsighted in pursuing insignificant goals, such as a first-round exit. The team has the assets to make a big move that could change the franchise’s trajectory, and if there’s an opportunity to do so, maybe the Knicks should take it.
It already seems that New York has looked into this, as Michael Grange of Sportsnet reported ” It’s widely believed ” the Knicks are preparing to make an offer of three first-round picks for OG Anunoby. Here’s a deal that would get it done.
Knicks Trade – Derrick Rose, Obi Toppin, 2023 Top Ten Protected First-Round Pick via Dallas, 2023 Lottery Protected First-Round Pick via Washington, 2023 Top 18 Protected First-Round Pick via Detroit
Raptors Trade – OG Anunoby
Rumors suggest Anunoby could be on the move before the deadline, with the Raptors looking for ” A haul at least in the ballpark of Atlanta’s offseason price for Dejounte Murray ” per Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. This return would live up to that standard, netting the Raptors three first-round picks and a young player in Toppin.
From the Knicks’ perspective, in most cases, this would be an overpay for a player who hasn’t proven himself as an all-star yet. But Anunoby is a piece that would fit well with any core, especially New York’s. The Knicks lack a lockdown defender, and that’s exactly what Anunoby would provide, along with a scoring punch of 17 points per game.
Unlike the Knicks of the early 2010s, this roster has too much depth and not enough power up front. Therefore, cashing in on three first-round picks along with Toppin, a player who will never be able to thrive playing behind Julius Randle, is a smart move even if the value is in Toronto’s favor.