The New York Knicks appear to be on the outs with Kristaps Porzingis after his meeting left management with the idea that he wants out.
The New York Knicks and Kristaps Porzingis have had a rocky relationship. As if the earlier reports of Porzingis’ displeasure weren’t enough, now Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN is reporting that “Porzingis left the Knicks with the impression that he prefers to be traded.”
Kristaps Porzingis left the Knicks with the impression that he prefers to be traded, league sources tell @ramonashelburne and me. Knicks are expected to commence discussions on moving him ahead of next Thursday's deadline.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 31, 2019
Thursday has been an awful news day for the Knicks. First, the news broke that Porzingis wasn’t very interested in a sign-and-trade with the New Orleans Pelicans. Next, there were reports that Porzingis voiced his concerns with management. Finally, the latest reports imply that Porzingis wants out of New York.
This is a tough situation for the front office. Porzingis’ value is at a low point while he slowly recovers from his injury. It’s hard to see a team putting together a package that would match Porzingis’ potential value. Despite what he may or may not bring in a return, there is no shortage of teams interested.
The Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors are among many teams expected to pursue Kristaps Porzingis in a trade, league sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 31, 2019
Of these five teams, it’s unclear who will be able to offer the best deal for Porzingis. It’s unlikely that the Knicks would be willing to trade KP to their crosstown rivals so the Brooklyn Nets would have to come with an overwhelming offer. But outside of Brooklyn, it will depend on who is willing to take a chance on Porzingis’ health.
Expect the Miami Heat to be aggressive in pursuit of Porzingis. They were in hot pursuit of Jimmy Butler at one point and they are restricted by the salary cap to pursue stars in free agency. Trading for Porzingis would be a creative way to land a star despite their current salary cap constraints.
