The NBA’s trade deadline is just weeks away, and the New York Knicks are taking a look at Brooklyn Nets’ forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson.
It’s long been rumored that the Knicks were looking for a wingman come the trade deadline, and they may have found one.
Marc Berman of the New York Post reported Saturday evening that New York opened talks with the Brooklyn Nets regarding 23-year old forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson.
“One NBA source said the Knicks inquired about the Nets’ 23-year-old defensive forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, but Brooklyn asked for a first-rounder. That the Knicks’ pick is looking more like a lottery selection makes it virtually untouchable.”
Hollis-Jefferson is running a campaign for the NBA’s Most Improved Player Award with averages of 14.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. All career-highs.
For Knicks fans, this is nothing but good news, regardless of whether the trade comes to fruition or not. The Nets young forward is not only young and on a cheap deal, but also a great defender.
More importantly, New York’s first-round pick is trending towards the lottery, so better deals may come knocking.
For now, though, it seems they’ll hold tight and wait for a better deal. Something this new front office has over the old—patience.
Berman noted that President Steve Mills and General Manager Scott Perry will definitely avoid taking on any extra salary.
“Knicks president Steve Mills and general manager Scott Perry are vehemently opposed to inheriting any more bad contracts.”
At 22-28, the playoffs are slowly trending towards a non-reality for the Knicks. They’d be wise to continue shopping for young talent, and stray away from “win now” type deals.
As the deadline inches closer, watch for a definite trade, as New York continues to receive interest in Courtney Lee, Willy Hernangomez, and Kyle O’Quinn.
It’s unlikely any of those players would interest Brooklyn in a trade for Hollis-Jefferson.
