The 19-15 Knicks are actively pursuing trades before the February 8 deadline to improve their roster. The deal for forward OG Anunoby cost young players like guard Immanuel Quickley, leaving a need for a ball-handler. Yahoo Sports’ Jake Fischer says the Knicks are ready to evaluate former Knick Alec Burks and Portland Trail Blazers guard Malcolm Brogdon.
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Knicks Eye Alec Burks and Malcolm Brogdon in Trade Talks Amidst Rotation Adjustments
According to Fischer, the Knicks can pursue Alec Burks in Detroit and Malcolm Brogdon in Portland using their draft money and Evan Fournier’s contract flexibility. Atlanta Hawks Dejounte Murray, whom the Knicks considered in the 2022 summer, is another possibility. Due to his troubles with Trae Young, another diminutive point guard, Murray’s fit with Jalen Brunson is questioned.
Although Murray could give third All-Star talent, a consistent bench playmaker could have a greater impact. Miles McBride is the backup point guard after Quickley left. Despite a three-year, $13 million agreement, his historical averages cast doubt on his ability to command the second unit as a ball-handler.
Although not transformative, Alec Burks has Tom Thibodeau’s allegiance owing to his Knick’s efforts. In 2021-22, Burks averaged 12.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 44 starts at point guard. His recent troubles with the Pistons—10.6 points and 1.3 assists—may be concerning.
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Knicks Weigh Brogdon as Quickley’s Replacement: Navigating Representation Challenges in Trade Talks
However, Malcolm Brogdon is a promising Quickley substitute. Brogdon had outstanding stats with the Celtics after winning Sixth Man of the Year last season. In 26 games, including 16 starts, he averaged 15.7 points and 5.6 assists for Portland.
Since Klutch Sports Group and Rich Paul represent Brogdon, he may be harder to trade than Burks. Paul’s reluctance to work with the Knicks, according to SNY’s Ian Begley, may affect Brogdon’s signing. Klutch-represented Dejounte Murray raises questions about his suitability as a Knicks target.
In essence, the Knicks must balance loyalty, player performance, and representation issues while pursuing a trade target. The team’s composition and competitiveness may change during trade talks.
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