Trade deadline rumors are beginning to swirl and Philadelphia is reportedly interested in New York Knicks forward Noah Vonleh.
There’s plenty of argument that Noah Vonleh has been the best player on the New York Knicks this year. The Knicks picked him up on a non-guaranteed deal ahead of the season and he’s flourishing.
Vonleh is averaging career-highs across the board: 8.7 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and a .416 shooting clip from three. New York head coach David Fizdale saw his potential early, and his giving the former lottery pick all the opportunity to grow.
The 23-year-old forward has already seen 35 starts with the Knicks, compared to just 15 last season between Portland and Chicago. Vonleh’s often been New York’s best defender, and one of their better shooters simultaneously.
So, naturally he’s drawing trade interest ahead of the Feb. 7 deadline.
Among teams circling Vonleh as a target, Sean Deveny of Sporting News reports that the Philadelphia 76ers are looking at the Knicks big man, among others:
“The Sixers are another team willing to part with this year’s pick for immediate shooting help, as Philly looks for a big man who can shoot, along the lines of Mike Scott, Frank Kaminsky or Noah Vonleh … The Pelicans and Sixers have also inquired about Lin (11.0 points in 19.3 minutes per game this season) and the Hawks may be able to create some bidding for his services ahead of the deadline.”
Philadelphia is dead set on competing for a spot in the NBA Finals, so it’s no surprise they’re willing to part with their first rounder.
They recently made a blockbuster trade for Jimmy Butler, and with his free agency upcoming, they want to show him a promising future in Philadelphia.
As much love as Vonleh’s harvested among the Knicks fandom, a first rounder is a deal you don’t pass up. Whether or not talks have taken place between the two teams is another story.
For now, Vonleh will continue his stellar season in New York. Ironically enough, the Knicks will travel to Philadelphia for a match up with the 76ers Sunday. Tip-off is at 1:00 p.m. EST.
