New York Knicks Ex General Manager Scott Perry Hints at Paul George Trade?
It feels like the New York Knicks have been involved in nearly every trade rumor involving a star player, but nothing has come to fruition as the team seeks to build on its most successful season in a decade.
One of those involved in the hunt, former general manager Scott Perry, offered some insight about the Knicks' search in the Nov. 21 edition of ESPN New York's Michael Kay Show.
"I think they need a player that can create some more offense off the dribble for himself and for his teammates, some size and some defensive versatility," Perry, who parted ways with the Knicks earlier this year, said. "“When teams do decide to go small, that size and length do matter, especially when it gets to playoffs, and I think it could also be very helpful too for a guy like Jalen Brunson, now you got bigger people at the two and the three, to go with Julius and Mitchell Robinson, then you can see what you have.”
New York Knicks guard Quentin Grimes (6) defends Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George (13)
Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports
Just from that description, it sounds like players like OG Anunoby and Paul George could be prime trade targets for the Knicks.
Trading for Anunoby is likely out of the question for the time being considering the off-court issues between the Knicks and his Toronto Raptors. But George, standing at 6-8 and 220 lbs., could re-enter the conversation soon enough, especially if his Los Angeles Clippers continue to struggle, having failed to find a game-changing spark since dealing for former Philadelphia 76er James Harden.
Having more would give the Knicks a huge advantage over plenty of opponents as the modern NBA further embraces smaller lineups. The Knicks (9-6) themselves are no strangers to such a concept, swapping Obi Toppin out of their primary rotation in favor of backcourt man Donte DiVincenzo over the offseason.
For the time being, the Knicks as currently constructed will continue a four-game homestand on Sunday evening when they face the Phoenix Suns (6 p.m. ET, MSG).
