It’s that time of the year in the NBA. Rumors are swirling. Some star players are expected to be on the move. Meanwhile, even some role players are seen as potential trade targets.
Take Quentin Grimes of the New York Knicks. Initially, we were surprised to see him in trade rumors. The Knicks just drafted Grimes. He’s been playing well. Why would the Knicks move him?
Then we remembered his upcoming contract extension. The Knicks need to keep their books clean for the recently acquired O.G. Anunoby. Grimes could be on the move. Could the Knicks send him to the Orlando Magic?
The Trade Proposal
New York Knicks receive: G Markelle Fultz
Orlando Magic receive: G/F Evan Fournier, G/F Quentin Grimes
Every team needs to manage their books. On the other hand, that shouldn’t be a team’s top priority either. Generally, teams that pinch pennies have difficulty building a contender.
On the other hand, spending too loosely can be equally problematic. A team needs to be able to afford their best players. The Magic have a surplus of cap space now. What will happen when Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner need extensions?
With that in mind, the Knicks have balanced their books well. Nobody on this team has a huge contract. Fournier has been the only bad deal on the books for some time, and now, his contract is expiring. Should the Knicks pass on his upcoming savings?
Why The New York Knicks Do The Deal
In fairness, Fultz is on an expiring deal as well. With that said, the Knicks may want to retain him. That may not be especially difficult given Fultz’s injury history.
Still, the Knicks need a player like Fultz. They lost Immanuel Quickley when they acquired Anunoby. Fultz could pilot this team’s second unit when Brunson needs a rest. By all accounts, that’s something that the Knicks are looking for.
It’s also something that Grimes doesn’t provide. He’s proven himself to be a solid 3-and-D guard in this league, but the Knicks have plenty of players with a similar skill set. They may prefer Fultz’s playmaking. Should the Magic prefer Grimes?
Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
In some respects, these rosters have been built in opposite manners. The Knicks have a couple of playmakers and plenty of spacing and defense. The Magic could use more shooting – and they’ve got more than enough playmaking.
That’s why they can spare Fultz. By all accounts, the front office feels the same. Fultz is seen as a potential trade candidate leading up to the deadline. What should the Magic seek for him?
How about a comparable young player with a more complementary skillset? Grimes would be a perfect fit in Orlando. He doesn’t need the ball, he spaces the floor, and he defends. Don’t be surprised if this rumor becomes a reality.
