With the NBA trade deadline just days away, multiple reports have indicated that the Knicks will likely not be a part of any blockbuster deals, instead looking to make smaller upgrades that will allow the team to hang onto their many draft assets while they continue to make a playoff push.
But that doesn’t mean New York won’t make any notable acquisitions.
According to SNY’s Ian Begley, the Knicks have had discussions with the Magic regarding forward Evan Fournier, who could help boost an offense that has struggled since Derrick Rose’s absence due to COVID-19 protocols.
Fournier, who is averaging 19.1 point per game with Orlando, is considered to be strongly in the mix for the Celtics, per multiple reports, but the Knicks have shown interest. Fournier, 28, is shooting 45 percent from the field and 38 percent from downtown in 24 games this season.
While Fournier could be a boost for the Knicks, they still could swoop in on bigger pieces if asking prices were to fall, like point guard Lonzo Ball, per Begley, or help facilitate a three-team deal that could help bring in more assets or more draft picks, which New York has loaded up on in recent years.
In terms of players who could be on the way out this week, Austin Rivers looks like the likely candidate, with Rose returning to the team and Immanuel Quickley breaking out in his rookie season. Rivers saw miniscule minutes after Rose was brought in, and while he’s due to return from paternity leave, he appears set to either be traded or bought out, both options that are being considered by the Knicks.
New York is 21-22 and seventh in the Eastern Conference heading into Tuesday night’s matchup with the Wizards.
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1
Follow WFAN on Social Media
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Twitch