Knicks Active on Trade Market, Pursuing Dejounte Murray Following Latest Acquisition
ICARO Media Group
The New York Knicks have made a splash on the trade market with their recent acquisition of OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa, and Malachi Flynn from the Toronto Raptors. According to league sources, the Knicks are not done yet and remain interested in pursuing San Antonio Spurs guard Dejounte Murray. However, the team may face limitations in their offer as Immanuel Quickley, who could have been a key piece in a potential trade package, is no longer available after the weekend deal.
Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reveals that the Knicks' interest in Murray has not wavered following their latest transaction. The team's front office will need to get creative in constructing an appealing trade package without the inclusion of Quickley. Murray has been on the Knicks' radar for some time, and they are determined to explore the possibility of acquiring the talented guard.
Scotto further reports that multiple NBA executives have weighed in on the Knicks' trade for Anunoby. While one executive raises concerns about a potential overpay, acknowledging the departure of Quickley and RJ Barrett, another executive is intrigued by the team's future moves. The latter executive suggests that the Knicks' willingness to part with talented scorers indicates their readiness to make another significant move.
The trade has generated mixed feelings among the Knicks players who were not involved in the deal. According to Peter Botte of The New York Post, Julius Randle, who referred to Barrett and Quickley as "little brothers," expressed that this was a tough trade due to the relationships built with the departed players. Taj Gibson, while excited about the addition of Anunoby, also acknowledged the difficulty of saying goodbye to Barrett and Quickley, whom he has known since their entry into the league.
Experts from The Ringer, The Athletic, and Spotrac have analyzed the trade from both the Knicks' and Raptors' perspectives. Zach Kram, John Hollinger, and Keith Smith have examined the potential benefits for both teams, as well as the financial implications of the deal. They have also highlighted the impact of new contract agreements in 2024 for Anunoby and Quickley, shedding light on the future salary considerations for both teams.
Frustration over roles and playing time in the Knicks' locker room appears to have contributed to the team's decision to consolidate their roster sooner rather than later. Fred Katz of The Athletic reports that discussions with the Boston Celtics in the offseason hinted at the Knicks' willingness to exchange Quickley for an elite defender, with Marcus Smart being a potential target. This suggests that the team has been contemplating such moves for some time.
As the Knicks continue to be active on the trade market, all eyes are on how their pursuit of Dejounte Murray unfolds. The team aims to make a significant move to improve their roster and establish a more balanced and cohesive unit. Fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the Knicks' offseason, as they explore potential avenues to bolster their chances in the upcoming season.