The NBA trade winds are blowing, and the New York Knicks find themselves in an unfamiliar position. For once, we’re not chasing the biggest stars on the market. Instead, we’re looking to capitalize on the fallout from potential blockbuster trades involving De’Aaron Fox and Jimmy Butler.
Fox’s desire to leave Sacramento and Butler’s ongoing issues in Miami have created a ripple effect across the league. While these stars may not be on our radar, we’re eyeing the opportunity to snag valuable role players who could bolster our roster for a deep playoff run.
The Kings’ situation is particularly intriguing. With Fox potentially on the move, Sacramento might be forced to consider a soft rebuild. This opens the door for us to potentially acquire a player like Keon Ellis, who’s been impressive in limited minutes.
Ellis, a defensive maestro shooting an astounding 45% from three this season, could be the perfect backup for OG Anunoby and Josh Hart. His affordable contract ($2 million this year with a team option for next) makes him an attractive target.
A potential trade package for Ellis could include Jericho Sims, Tyler Kolek (or another young prospect), and the Washington first-round pick we acquired. While parting with Kolek might sting, the opportunity to add a proven 3-and-D wing like Ellis could be worth it.
The Heat’s situation with Butler is more complicated, but there might be an opportunity to snag Haywood Highsmith if Miami decides to shake things up. Highsmith, another solid 3-and-D player, could provide valuable depth and flexibility to our rotation.
These potential moves highlight our new approach to team building. Instead of swinging for the fences with star acquisitions, we’re looking to add complementary pieces that fit our system and culture. It’s a testament to how far we’ve come and the faith we have in our core group led by Jalen Brunson.
For more insights and a deeper dive into potential trade targets, tune into the Locked On Knicks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Knicks Podcast:
• Detailed analysis of Keon Ellis’s game and potential fit with the Knicks
• Discussion on the Kings’ potential rebuilding plans
• Breakdown of the Heat’s roster and potential trade pieces
