The New York Knicks (10-36) are currently sitting 14th in the Eastern Conference with the 2nd worst record in all of the NBA. So yes, regardless of what they say, they are certainly tanking. While they are undeniably tanking, they have been involved in multiple trade discussions in recent months. Names such as Dennis Smith Jr. and Jabari Parker have come up on the Knicks’ radar.
On top of this is the situation surrounding Enes Kanter and his recent frustrations with playing time. In their most recent game against the Rockets, the Knicks announced that young big man, Luke Kornet, would be inactive due to a sore ankle. This opened the door for Kanter to re-join the rotation. To his surprise, however, he played a grand total of zero minutes.
Kanter has requested to be traded without actually putting in a request. He has come out publicly about his frustrations with the coaching staff and organization and it’s only a matter of time before Kanter finds a new home.
Along with Kanter, the Knicks have made other players available for trade as well:
Here are the contract situations regarding Hardaway, Lee and Kanter:
The market for these players will be limited to contending teams given their contract structure and age. Here are some possible trade scenarios for each player:
(The Return Trade) Hardaway back to Atlanta
Knicks receive: Jeremy Lin, Taurean Prince, future 2nd round pick
Hawks receive: Tim Hardaway Jr.
The return of Linsanity? Stay tuned.
Kanter to Washington
Knicks receive: Markieff Morris, Tomas Satoransky, Troy Brown Jr, and a future 1st round pick.
Wizards receive: Enes Kanter
In this deal, the Knicks get rid of Kanter in exchange for two expiring contracts in Markieff Morris and Tomas Satoransky in addition to a young raw prospect in Troy Brown Jr., capped off with a future pick to add to their assets.
Lee to Philly
Knicks receive: Wilson Chandler and a 2nd round pick.
76ers receive: Courtney Lee
In this trade, the Knicks get rid of the two years remaining on Courtney Lee’s contract in exchange for Wilson Chandler’s expiring contract as well as a 2nd round pick.
Jabari to New York
Pelicans receive: Tim Hardaway Jr.
Knicks receive: Jabari Parker
Bulls receive: Elfrid Payton, Solomon Hill and a future 1st round pick.
This deal helps everyone on all ends. Knicks get to try and revitalize the career of Jabari Parker, the Pelicans get much needed scoring from their backcourt, and the Bulls get a much needed point guard, an expiring contract, and a future 1st round pick.
