3. At Least 5 Players Are Traded Away Or Waived
The New York Knicks have a delicate balancing act to pull off. While Tom Thibodeau didn’t come to town to rebuild and tank, the team does have some youngsters that need development. Earning minutes is the easiest way for that to happen, but the Knicks also have some veterans that could be itching for playing time.
Right now, the roster is a little unbalanced. New York doesn’t have a true small forward on the roster, as Reggie Bullock and Alec Burks have filled the role and done it well. They could also use some more floor spacers and a big man that can offer a little more offense outside of alley-oops and putbacks.
The Knicks are in a good position. They will be buyers given their spot in the standings and have pieces that other teams should be interested in. As a result, there will be some player movement on this roster.
New York will have at least five players currently on the roster not be on the roster when the regular season concludes. If the Knicks go chasing a bigger name, such as Bradley Beal, Zach LaVine or Victor Oladipo, this number would be rather easily attainable. Even if they just fill in the gaps and hold onto their assets into the offseason, the team has cap space to spend.
One of Payton or Ntilikina will likely be dealt. Veteran Austin Rivers will most likely find a new home as he looks far from the rotation. Kevin Knox has been shopped actively. Players only one-year deals, while they can help the Knicks make a push, might have too strong of markets to pass up.
How active the Knicks are is anyone’s guess, but what is for sure is that Leon Rose and company will be going shopping.
