Could Knicks Target Backcourt Help at Trade Deadline?
Since the New York Knicks traded him to the Toronto Raptors, Immanuel Quickley has been thriving in his starting role, averaging 19.2 points and 6.2 assists in six games so far. While the Knicks are probably pleased with the way things turned out (they're 5-1 since the trade that acquired OG Anunoby), they're undoubtedly missing Quickley's production off the bench.
Another deal could help the Knicks shore up their backcourt depth, and Bleacher Report's Greg Swartz seems to agree. Listing each NBA team's top modern trade deadline need, Swartz suggests that the Knicks find a Quickley replacement.
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"The Knicks still have draft picks to trade and can use Evan Fournier's $18.9 million expiring contract as a salary-matcher," writes Bleacher Report's Greg Swartz. "This would line up similarly to players such as Tyus Jones, Malcolm Brogdon, and Jordan Clarkson."
With recent news saying that Knicks' starting center Mitchell Robinson could return from ankle surgery before the regular season concludes, it might be in the team's best interest to be a bit more active in the trade market, especially if it means shoring up the backcourt depth chart.
If the Knicks feel like they could contend this season, being aggressive before the deadline to get a Quickley replacement could be the move the team needs. While rotation newcomer Miles McBride has had some offensive breakouts, he's more renowned for his defense. Since Jan. 1, the Knicks have averaged only 9.8 points off the bench, tied for the second-lowest mark in the league in that span.
The Knicks (22-16) will be back in action on Saturday against the injury-ridden Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum (8 p.m. ET, MSG).
