According to Gigantes Del Basket, the New York Knicks are not sold on their point guard trio of veteran Jose Calderon, rookie Jerian Grant, and second-year man Langston Galloway, who is signed to a partially-guaranteed contract after a strong finish to his rookie season. This could lead to a midseason trade that would send a young starting point guard to the New York Knicks, who could feed the ball to Carmelo Anthony. Last season, the Knicks were 19th in assists per game.
The New York Knicks could pursue Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio. According to Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe, the Timberwolves are beginning to grow impatient with production of Rubio and could look to trade him before the winter trade deadline. The deciding factor on whether a trade will be made is how rookie point guard Tyus Jones plays once the NBA season begins. The former Duke player had a strong showing in summer league play, which has the team feeling optimistic. If he can continue with his current trend, the Timberwolves could trade Rubio to continue on with their core of young players.
Ricky Rubio’s contract is not exactly a desirable one for the New York Knicks to take on. But, the Knicks have explored acquiring Eric Bledsoe and Ty Lawson via trade, as both had hefty contracts. Rubio could easily be the next player that the Knicks target.
If the New York Knicks are not interested in Rubio, then they could explore the option of acquiring Mario Chalmers, who has been heavily shopped by the Miami Heat as of late. If the Knicks are desperate after struggles by their own point guards, Chalmers will get a look. Norris Cole and Brandon Jennings will also be potentially available options depending on how the team fares.
New York Knicks executive Phil Jackson admitted that the organization pushed hard to acquire Goran Dragic by trade. Getting someone like Ricky Rubio would finally give Carmelo Anthony someone who can create plays and compliment his own play.
Do you think the New York Knicks will make a transaction in order to acquire Ricky Rubio? If not, what other moves do you see the Knicks making before the NBA season begins in October? Finally, how do you see New York faring this season, after finishing last in the eastern conference with a record of 17-65 and drafting Kristaps Porzingis?
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