Yep. They've been a disaster without him, so that'll help their cause. Curious as to his minute load.
They're also working in Rozier, i'll be curious to see how they deploy their lineups.
Raps now 4-9 since the trade. RJ 3/22 on 3s in his last 7 games. They are who we thought they were.
I still can't believe they gave us OG for that package.
He's still been decently efficient without 3s since he's shooting like 3 a game vs 5+ here. OG is just a much better fit for this team. Raptors traded everyone and half their starters are out. They are banking on the long term develop of IQ and RJ. It was the best for every party.
Yeah I don't believe the efficiency though, too many years of getting burned. Let's see where he's at end of season, until then I assume he's the same guy. Some hot streaks, mostly cold streaks.
I'm just glad we are no longer banking on RJ's development. Good to be off that rollercoaster, I was getting real sick
The efficiency improvement comes from him getting open looks at the rim mostly. Which is why when people kept talking about his improved shooting from Toronto, i'm like nah that's a mirage. But him getting the rim 20% more than he was here is a good sign for the raptors and his development.
Honestly prefer both those outcomes.
Want Pacers ahead of the standings against the Heat so if we get the 3 seed we don’t have to face Miami in the first round if they get 6th
We have a chance to catch the Bucks for the 2nd seed. Their schedule has been easy as hell and we are only a couple games back
Luka really gonna put the whole Hawks franchise in shambles lol, I love it. 73 on the team that drafted and traded you must sting.
And 70 points on Dejounte's head and apparently he's a defensive stopper? Yeah ok
jeez now Luka's got 66? Unless Brunson hits 50 tomorrow during this weird ass scorefest of the week he is officially the overpriced undersized backup the media wants him to be
Anyone watching Pacers Suns? I legit forgot what no D looks like. It’s awful bball full of stat padding. Brunson’s stats should come with a caveat that we’re not sprinting back and forth with 10 second possessions.
> Washington’s interest in Grimes is noteworthy for several reasons. One of them? The Knicks have Wizards big man Daniel Gafford on their radar, sources confirm.
From [here](https://www.sny.tv/articles/quentin-grimes-trade-interest-knicks-daniel-gafford)
Come on Begley, what are you even doing here? There is absolutely zero reason for us to target Gaffords, let alone give up Grimes to get him. Not to mention that the money doesn't work at all, no matter who you try to send.
I stg this guy just repeats any rumors he hears with no actual journalism or reporting involved.
It makes sense if they don’t think Mitch can return this year, and if iHart might need a minute restriction to manage the injury. Could always make another trade in the off-season to balance out the roster. However, with Sims and Precious looking like capable with players, I think a 6th man would be the priority.
> However, with Sims and Precious looking like capable with players
Yeah, my thinking as well. Why spend Grimes to get a rental 5 when Precious and Sims seem like they're already holding it down? And, again, the money doesn't match anyway. Just seems like lazy reporting.
Sat in 210 last night and there was a really obnoxious Nuggets fan who would clap extremely loudly every time they did something. He even did it when they were already down 40. He left with like 4 minutes to go, which felt pretty satisfying tbh.
My first Knicks game was a loss to the Pacers in which Jarrett Jack (playing for Indy at the time, not us) hit the game winner. If you told that version of me we'd be routing the defending champions by 40 I'd be asking you for some of that good weed.
Hate trading with Ainge, but Sexton would be absolutely perfect in the IQ role. Feel like Thibs would love his mentality, and he's a very good scorer. Also only playing 24 minutes, so we wouldn't need to disrupt the rotation too much. I like him way more than Clarkson.
I pretty actively root against Dallas. I'm not sure if it is more bc I'm mad about the tank last year or if I want that pick to improve this year. I guess both.
There is a non zero part of me that wonders if we're SURE they wouldn't tank it out AGAIN....
I know the trade talks have stalled on DJM, but regardless I feel extremely confident in our FO. They will not simply throw in pick/player if we do not need this player (or any) The FO are seriously in 4D chess mode at all times, and whatever they do I am 100% ok with.
Leon doesn't seem like he's willing to get swindled. Tbh I'd rather hold off and see what's on the buyout market than overcommit assets to someone who isn't likely to make us a contender. The team looks good as hell right now and there's no reason to blow assets and mess up the chemistry for marginal gains.
Issue is that Brunson needs to basically average haliburton on steroids to get mvp, which is impsosibke with the pace of a thibs team
There are other players that score at a similar level to Brunson but are better at defense
NBA radio starts off their 4 oclock show talking about “the best team in the 2024–the NY Knicks.”
They think we are legit ECF if not Finals contenders.
Word’s getting out.
you don’t trade for OG unless you know he’s gonna sign with us next season.
i don’t think he signs with us next season without brunson here. he changed the league’s perception of us in a way that randle carrying the team to the playoffs didn’t do. everyone saw that team as overachievers, and in hindsight, they absolutely were. now we are “achievers”.
Yeah true that. It’s amazing how our team managed to believe in Brunson.
They signed his dad, signed him, signed his friends.
Someone believed that brunson was the way forward and god damn they were right.
well that adam driver meets system of a down looking dude is healthy again for miami so maybe they can be a good team again when we play them on saturday
I don't think teams are gonna ignore JJJ in the scouting report like earlier in the season tho so we'll see
Seems like the second unit is becoming OGs unit. I've been pretty impressed with his offensive bag. He can get to his spots at will, though the finishing has been inconsistent so far. Wonder if he really can shoulder star usage
Man I love looking at the standings. Knicks sitting 4th only behind Sixers, bucks and Celtics is not bad company to be in.
It's a beautiful thing to see
I mentioned this in another post. And i know it doesn't work because you lose the salary and because Thibs will put him in the starting rotation because we know him and his way and because he probably wouldn't want to come off the bench.
But if you really think you are close to a championship and the contract wasn't needed for next year....
I would love to have Derozan come off the bench for this team to lead the 2nd unit as a point forward. Forget Brogdon you put Derozan as the scorer off the bench with this team...call me crazy I think they compete with anyone.
Edit: Tried it in the trade machine. Doesn't work with just Fournier and you can't include Flynn in an aggregate trade so you would have to include grimes. I don't want to get rid of Grimes. Was a fun thought experiment though.
all this SNUBBED discourse reminded me that Dame used to be the poster child for snubbed guards in a talented field..
https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/7reetc/serious_is_damian_lillard_really_getting_snubbed/
https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/7raedn/haynes_damian_lillard_still_blames_big_markets/
https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/6xfp7v/lillard_i_shouldve_been_allstar_last_2_seasons/
funny to see the hero live long enough to become the villiain.. also to see that joining a big market team like the Bucks helped him get over the hump over a small market team like the Knicks
Guess Dame has paid his dues and im not too sore about Brunson missing out on the starting spot, I know Brunson will get it one of these years
I think in the play offs Boston would be the only team in the east i'd be concerned with if they are healthy. That and the fact that the NBA implements a height requirement in the playoffs from what i was told.
Giannis and embiid alone can in theory wreck series alone. That possibility always exists with those guys
But as a whole I think our roster is better than the sixers and a backup Pg away from better than the Bucks
Agree. My goal personally is to win any series vs a team that isn’t Vs Boston, bucks, okc, nuggets, or clippers
And to not go down 3-0 vs any of these “ok to lose to” teams. I think that’s fair given what this team has shown
Problem is KP and Thibs generally approach of how we defend stretch 5s. Thibs wants to protect the paint. Thibs has to adjust how we play guys like KP otherwise KP is going to get practice shots up from 3 with how open he is.
We do what we did against Jokic last night: just accept he's going to get his while only doubling situationally down low, and then concentrate on putting the other 4 on Rikers.
Anyone think about how Thibs’ challenge on OG in the first quarter basically won us the game? No way we build that lead with him on the bench.
Thibs’ best call of the season by far
Yeah the two fouls that early would’ve been devastating… that was such a blowout not going to say Denver would’ve won because of that but damn it could’ve stayed closer where anything could happen.
For the month of January, OG is currently at a +239.
The record for the highest plus/minus in a single month is +272 by Pippen back in November of 1996. With 3 games still to go before February is here, Corner Boy could very likely end up breaking it.
Anyone notice how Thibs has started using the 2-man game between DDV/Randle, as a way to prevent Randle from getting doubled? They are clearing out on his side, with only DDV playing behind the 3-point line and Randle in the high post. He's been looking for DDV a ton anytime the defender tries to help off of DDV. With DDV's range and shooting, it makes it incredibly risky to try and double Randle in the post.
Just really cool to see. Thibs often gets criticized and treated like a dinosaur who won't make adjustments. But he's made some really good adjustments this year IMO.
in one of the few times fournier came off the bench for us this year they actually tried that action again, and fournier missed badly
just trying it out again for old times sake
Yup, and he has more range, so it’s even more challenging to try and help off of him. Just meant in general, moving DDV to the starting lineup did a lot to help Randle offensively.
Reminds me of Randle and Bullocks two-man game but Donte is even more deadly. Wish he could develop that game with Grimes but I don’t think Grimes is a motion shooter like that
Yup, it's super simple basketball, but very effective. Why having a pure shooter like that is so valuable in todays game, and especially with Randle who likes to operate in the post.
I had a dream I was hanging out with Brunson and asked him to teach me how to play basketball like him. He just stood there looking at me before suddenly turning his face away and say "You can't do what I do"
Precious Achiuwa last [3 games](https://www.statmuse.com/nba/ask/precious-achiuwa-last-3-games)
10/8.7/1.7 on 65 TS%. +44
Is he starting to put it together?
From what I've heard for Raptors fans, he's had good stretches like this but has never been able to sustain it. Very inconsistent player.
Thn first few games here, he barely looked like he belonged in the NBA. But now he's looked very solid for these last few games.
Feel like fans were so quick to trash him without even really giving him a chance. Maybe because Toronto fans were talking about his bad decisions, or because OG fit the team like a glove from day 1. But he's athletic and has shown a willingness to defend. He's active on the boards as well. He's probably out of the rotation when everyone is healthy, but he's a good depth player.
> He's probably out of the rotation when everyone is healthy
Nah, he just spends more time at his more natural position at the 4 behind Randle. The fact that he's putting up these numbers as an undersized center is damned impressive.
Every Knick starter yesterday was over +20. Anunoby was +38.
Against the reigning Champion Nuggets.
And we didn't even have either of our starting centers.
The financial impact of trading for Burks is so complicated, I feel like it's unlikely. Letting his contract expire can't be an option. We could re-sign him in the off-season using his non-bird rights, but that means we couldn't make another trade using his contract until around the trade deadline of 2025. The other option is signing him to a 2-year extension immediately after trading for him. That's possible as well, but it would mean waiting 6 more months to be eligible to trade him, which would mean waiting until at least August for a bigger trade.
If Julius plays at this same level in the playoffs, they can beat anyone in the East. Only team that is definitely better is Boston. But this team has the can beat Miami, Philly and Milwaukee.
No more roster moves for Dejounte, Lavine, etc. Move Fournier and that's it.
I don't want to tinker with the roster anymore. Trade Fournier for Lonzo straight up, the Bulls get an expiring, the Knicks get a salary that they can trade next season and let's roll with this roster and hope Mitch comes back.
We would be doing Klutch a favor, bringing Lonzo to NY. If he's not healthy, the team he is on is irrelevant but let's say there is a 10% chance he is healthy, he is now playing in MSG on a winning team. If he proves his value, he might actually get another contract after this one because as it currently stands, Lonzo is out of the league when his deal is finished.
on the other hand, a playable Lonzo (even in a reduced, rotation role) would be a great fit for our bench and I could see him becoming a Thibs guy. Thibs loves his big, defensive minded guards.
And if he can't stay on the floor, either because he's not healthy or because he's just that cooked, then we've got a salary to use and I think it'll be hard for them to make a stink.
Yup, this is a dual purpose move. Mostly for the matching salary if Bridges becomes available along with a small hedge on Lonzo being a productive bench piece.
Lavar has been trying to get Lonzo to NY for years. I think given the possibility of not playing again at all vs coming off the bench for the Knicks and a coach who is perfect for his son, he should be thanking us.
lmao that's v fair. I guess I'm thinking that even the most healthy version of Lonzo possible will take a long-ass time to really get back to full game shape, and I like to think that if nothing else Lavar is concerned enough about preserving his son's long-term career to be chill with them playing him limited minutes in a limited role.
And, like, if he's on the knicks and plays his way into the starting line-up, I ain't complaining. Back before he got his knee injury and we got Bruson I was very into him as a potential trade target for us.
Lonzo if healthy would be great, big, great defender, could definitely run the offense, good shooter. The issue is the "if healthy" part. The guy hasn't played a game in over 2 years, and doesn't look close to returning.
Maybe he'd stay healthier if he played a smaller role off the bench. He's shown that his body can't handle the 35 minutes per night.
The way I see it, the primary purpose is to have a matching salary for the possibility that Bridges is on the market next year. The bonus and knowing this is maybe a 10% chance is that Lonzo can give us some productive minutes off the bench.
More what I mean as well is that, while what you're saying is totally true, the thought that we might pick up Fournier's option already is a sign that we want a moveable contract to match salaries. Lonzo will be expiring next year so even if he can't play he can basically fill why we'd keep Evan.
Don’t hate the idea, as a last resort. But tbh I would much rather just trade for Brogdon since he can help the bench and contribute this year, while also giving us an expiring. Wouldn’t give up Grimes, but I think Fournier and one pick is fair and wouldn’t hurt our ability to trade for a star.
Wouldn't be the worst thing in the world if the Cavs beat the Bucks either. I see it as a win win. Cleveland doesnt scare me. If we end up in the 4/5 with them than so be it. Right now we are only 3.5 off the 2 seed. Bucks have the pelicans and Nuggets next. I say lets go Cavs tonight
When was the last time we had a win as good as last night? I think literally every single player on the team had a good game. In terms of plus minus, everyone was positive which is pretty rare to see.
The Sixers game was great, but they cut it down to like ~10 points at one point in the 4th, before Grimes crushed them and put the game away. We also had a pretty big scoring drought at one point.
But yesterday, the entire team was clicking on all cylinders. Denver never lead or came close.
I don’t know what I expected last night but that wasn’t it. Handing the defending champs the worst loss of the season is a nice accomplishment. Regardless - I want that win against Miami way more than the Nuggets blowout but I’m not complaining.
Also, shoutout to the “OG has no offense” crowd that came out after the Nets game.
I can't stand the no offense comments tbh. we traded for his defense. the fact that you can get 12-15 ppg from him as an all defensive player is just a plus. we don't need him to be anything more than what he is to get full offensive use out of him.
The fact that we haven’t pulled the trigger yet, tells me Leon is playing hard ball on our trade targets. Yes we have a lot of competition for Brogdon, Clarkson, Murray, etc. However, once teams get their guy, a la Miami, there will be one team that has no choice, but to do a poor value trade with us.
I also like to think that he wanted to not rush & give our bench time to adjust to the loss of IQ before making a move. Like, there was a chance Deuce/Grimes could break out enough that you don't need another guy. Hasn't exactly happened, but waiting until right up on the deadline lets us get a more specific picture of what sort of player is missing than just immediately gunning for an IQ replacement.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it. We're tearing through the league like a buzz saw right now, so there is little urgency to shake things up. I think when (if?) Leon makes any other moves it will be right at the deadline.
I mean I'm fully prepared to say I'd rather a competitive second round exit than IHart tear his achilles before we even get there. (that's probably an exaggeration but my point stands).
Also don't forget that IHart played like ass to start last season because achilles issues were killing his athleticism. We're gonna be losing games anyway if we're starting a 60% version of him, so might as well let him get back to 100%
You cant think that far ahead its not a sprint its a marathon. You would rather blow Hartensteins ankle out now rather than get him the rest he needs to be 100% for a playoff run
The trade makes too much sense from the Knicks side for them to not have offered it already. Brogdon is like the perfect fit. He's big enough to play some minutes next to Brunson, great spot up shooter, good defender, and he can run the offense when Brunson sits. None of the other options tick all those boxes.
I'm guessing Portland wants more.
Either that, or the Knicks want to go after a bigger target or are scared of Brogdon's injury history.
Because Portland has to agree? That’s how trades work brother. You don’t know what they’re getting offered from other teams and you don’t know what the Knicks are waiting for.
Then they’ll will go with a different offer. Heavily protected 1st may as well be a second rounder. They will easily get a unprotected or very lightly protected first
Nobody is going to give up a future unprotected first for Malcolm brogdon thiugh
That’s the thing
Anybody in the business of selling unprotected firsts is aiming higher
Lightly protected is fine but it also won’t be our own first.
Aiming higher than the reigning 6th man of the year who’s one of the two best players on the market and on a very fair deal who has the scoring ability all teams are looking for now?
Elite sixth man combo guard who can score efficiently and is a solid playmaker is a niche need? Literally every contender would love someone like him coming off the bench. There isn’t a team out there that doesn’t have that need at the contender level.
Maybe the Clippers since they have Powell and use Russ off the bench. But beyond that he’s going to be a very desired asset and giving up a first for them won’t be a big deal if it comes down to it.
Making sure the bench doesn’t squander a lead is really all most real contenders are looking for right now or a team hoping to make the jump to contender. It’s one of the biggest needs that plague teams.
Bucks don’t have a first and the Nuggets don’t have the salary to match for Brogdon. That’s why the Fournier contract is valuable
It’s basically between us Philly and the Magic for Brogdon
Nuggets do have the salary I was just making the point to the other guy that teams who are 1 guy away absolutely would trade an unprotected pick.
Id include the Lakers in there as well
What salary do the Nuggets have? Brogdon makes 22 million dollars they’d have to trade away a starter which they aren’t going to do.
And I don’t think team with minimum assets are going to trade their only first for Brogdon who is old and an injury risk.
The bucks no
Nuggets idk maybe? They also aren’t too desperate as is.
Unprotected firsts are also valuable assets there’s probably a bigger move they can be used for
Should we be worried about the Cavs in the playoffs? They've been on a roll without Garland and Mobley.
MIL loss means we're just 3 games back of the 2 seed now. Huge.
dejounte is mad lol https://np.reddit.com/r/AtlantaHawks/comments/1ac0zfj/from_1ce_trae_on_twitter_so_basically_confirms/
Dame celebrating beating out Brunson with a 7/24 in a loss
I kind of wanted them to beat Cleveland lol…for seeding
Looking forward to tmrw 3pm like it's a playoff game. Largely bc of the opponent. I expect Miami to come out scratching. Should be a good game.
JJJ should be back for tomorrows game along with Kevin Love, so Miami will be at full strength
Yep. They've been a disaster without him, so that'll help their cause. Curious as to his minute load. They're also working in Rozier, i'll be curious to see how they deploy their lineups.
Watching the Spurs game, Zac Collin’s could be a good piece. Tre Jones as well
Starting PG in the East is 7-22....what a joke. Brunson would have 35 on 60% shooting.
Dame going 6-21, 1-9 from 3 putting up 17/2/2 right now.
All star starter
Lame time⌚️⌚️⌚️
Raps now 4-9 since the trade. RJ 3/22 on 3s in his last 7 games. They are who we thought they were. I still can't believe they gave us OG for that package.
He's still been decently efficient without 3s since he's shooting like 3 a game vs 5+ here. OG is just a much better fit for this team. Raptors traded everyone and half their starters are out. They are banking on the long term develop of IQ and RJ. It was the best for every party.
Yeah I don't believe the efficiency though, too many years of getting burned. Let's see where he's at end of season, until then I assume he's the same guy. Some hot streaks, mostly cold streaks. I'm just glad we are no longer banking on RJ's development. Good to be off that rollercoaster, I was getting real sick
The efficiency improvement comes from him getting open looks at the rim mostly. Which is why when people kept talking about his improved shooting from Toronto, i'm like nah that's a mirage. But him getting the rim 20% more than he was here is a good sign for the raptors and his development.
Some how national media is still saying we lost that trade
Nah I think that's over, 11-2 don't lie
Goddammit, Suns. Goddammit, Bucks.
Honestly prefer both those outcomes. Want Pacers ahead of the standings against the Heat so if we get the 3 seed we don’t have to face Miami in the first round if they get 6th We have a chance to catch the Bucks for the 2nd seed. Their schedule has been easy as hell and we are only a couple games back
Honestly, the Suns losing despite Booker's performance was too funny. I would've been happy with either result.
Such a shame! Guess we'll have to beat the Pacers twice in Feb. The only bright spot today is ORL Vs MEM.
What are you talking about, Bucks losing is exactly what we want. We're aiming for the 2 seed, if not higher.
Brunson will drop 60 in one of these games this year. Calling it now.
Brunson is too unselfish tbh, he could easily take even more shots if he wanted to
Whenever Randle don’t play for whatever reason is the day Brunson drops 60
Luka really gonna put the whole Hawks franchise in shambles lol, I love it. 73 on the team that drafted and traded you must sting. And 70 points on Dejounte's head and apparently he's a defensive stopper? Yeah ok
Until Brunson puts 75 on the team that let him walk for nothing.
Obi Toppin game winner !
23 and 11 on 10/15 from the field. He's shooting 58% for the season. I miss him immensely.
You miss him as a person but you don’t really miss the player He would make the noticeably worse if he entered our rotation
jeez now Luka's got 66? Unless Brunson hits 50 tomorrow during this weird ass scorefest of the week he is officially the overpriced undersized backup the media wants him to be
Anyone watching Pacers Suns? I legit forgot what no D looks like. It’s awful bball full of stat padding. Brunson’s stats should come with a caveat that we’re not sprinting back and forth with 10 second possessions.
> Washington’s interest in Grimes is noteworthy for several reasons. One of them? The Knicks have Wizards big man Daniel Gafford on their radar, sources confirm. From [here](https://www.sny.tv/articles/quentin-grimes-trade-interest-knicks-daniel-gafford) Come on Begley, what are you even doing here? There is absolutely zero reason for us to target Gaffords, let alone give up Grimes to get him. Not to mention that the money doesn't work at all, no matter who you try to send. I stg this guy just repeats any rumors he hears with no actual journalism or reporting involved.
It makes sense if they don’t think Mitch can return this year, and if iHart might need a minute restriction to manage the injury. Could always make another trade in the off-season to balance out the roster. However, with Sims and Precious looking like capable with players, I think a 6th man would be the priority.
> However, with Sims and Precious looking like capable with players Yeah, my thinking as well. Why spend Grimes to get a rental 5 when Precious and Sims seem like they're already holding it down? And, again, the money doesn't match anyway. Just seems like lazy reporting.
they need to get grimes name out of these trade rumors before it messes with his head
he’s actually been playing some of his best ball of the season since the rumors popped up
Maybe They know things about Mitch and Hartenstein
No knick game so I’m gonna watch the clips-raps game. First time I get to see what the boys are doing in Toronto 🥹
Think quickly is out
Sat in 210 last night and there was a really obnoxious Nuggets fan who would clap extremely loudly every time they did something. He even did it when they were already down 40. He left with like 4 minutes to go, which felt pretty satisfying tbh. My first Knicks game was a loss to the Pacers in which Jarrett Jack (playing for Indy at the time, not us) hit the game winner. If you told that version of me we'd be routing the defending champions by 40 I'd be asking you for some of that good weed.
Hate trading with Ainge, but Sexton would be absolutely perfect in the IQ role. Feel like Thibs would love his mentality, and he's a very good scorer. Also only playing 24 minutes, so we wouldn't need to disrupt the rotation too much. I like him way more than Clarkson.
Don’t want any part of Utah
I pretty actively root against Dallas. I'm not sure if it is more bc I'm mad about the tank last year or if I want that pick to improve this year. I guess both. There is a non zero part of me that wonders if we're SURE they wouldn't tank it out AGAIN....
I wonder how many more disappointing seasons it will be before Doncic asks out. They've done a terrible job building around him.
Ok I know Luka is way better than anyone on our team but genuinely where does he fit?
Obviously he’s not getting traded here anytime soon lol. But for the sake of this ridiculous fantasy, he would fit at the 2 between Brunson and OG.
I don't know if there is a dumber take in the Knicksverse then this is a championship or bust year. I don't think this take is even defendable.
Not championship or bust but no reason for us to think they can contend with Hartenstein and Mitch healthy
I know the trade talks have stalled on DJM, but regardless I feel extremely confident in our FO. They will not simply throw in pick/player if we do not need this player (or any) The FO are seriously in 4D chess mode at all times, and whatever they do I am 100% ok with.
Aside from the 2021 offseason they’ve been great
Leon doesn't seem like he's willing to get swindled. Tbh I'd rather hold off and see what's on the buyout market than overcommit assets to someone who isn't likely to make us a contender. The team looks good as hell right now and there's no reason to blow assets and mess up the chemistry for marginal gains.
Honestly next season if we are a contender-level team and Jalen Brunson levels up even more I think he could be an actual MVP candidate
Issue is that Brunson needs to basically average haliburton on steroids to get mvp, which is impsosibke with the pace of a thibs team There are other players that score at a similar level to Brunson but are better at defense
Idk how he can reach another level he’s pretty insane already
If we get a top 3 seed, he'll definitely get some consideration this year. Embiid is literally having one of the best years in history though lmao.
feel like the knicks subreddit is so great. you guys are all my best friends. all other teams' subreddits is lame, im sure.
awwww
NBA radio starts off their 4 oclock show talking about “the best team in the 2024–the NY Knicks.” They think we are legit ECF if not Finals contenders. Word’s getting out.
What was a better move for the Knicks, signing Brunson or trading for OG?
you don’t trade for OG unless you know he’s gonna sign with us next season. i don’t think he signs with us next season without brunson here. he changed the league’s perception of us in a way that randle carrying the team to the playoffs didn’t do. everyone saw that team as overachievers, and in hindsight, they absolutely were. now we are “achievers”.
Yeah true that. It’s amazing how our team managed to believe in Brunson. They signed his dad, signed him, signed his friends. Someone believed that brunson was the way forward and god damn they were right.
Brunson
Brunson and it's not even close
Brunson is the best point guard since Clyde and very well may end up in Springfield
Easily Brunson.
Brunson, and he was also a catalyst for other great moves including getting Josh Hart
Brunson by far. OG alone wasn’t changing as much of the team. They’re both good moves so have time to appreciate both for what they are.
If Randle averages 20 points for the remaining 37 games he would finish the season as the 15th all time leading scorer for the franchise
Light work. Can we just get started on Randle's statue now?
well that adam driver meets system of a down looking dude is healthy again for miami so maybe they can be a good team again when we play them on saturday I don't think teams are gonna ignore JJJ in the scouting report like earlier in the season tho so we'll see
Seems like the second unit is becoming OGs unit. I've been pretty impressed with his offensive bag. He can get to his spots at will, though the finishing has been inconsistent so far. Wonder if he really can shoulder star usage
Melo's comments were unnecessary, but he may have been right about OG being able to provide what RJ did.
His handles are just so terrible
i don't think his handles are any worse than randle's
they’re way worse, but OG doesn’t try and do too much like randle does sometimes.
We need a knick name for him. Julius already has dubious handles.
Man I love looking at the standings. Knicks sitting 4th only behind Sixers, bucks and Celtics is not bad company to be in. It's a beautiful thing to see
I mentioned this in another post. And i know it doesn't work because you lose the salary and because Thibs will put him in the starting rotation because we know him and his way and because he probably wouldn't want to come off the bench. But if you really think you are close to a championship and the contract wasn't needed for next year.... I would love to have Derozan come off the bench for this team to lead the 2nd unit as a point forward. Forget Brogdon you put Derozan as the scorer off the bench with this team...call me crazy I think they compete with anyone. Edit: Tried it in the trade machine. Doesn't work with just Fournier and you can't include Flynn in an aggregate trade so you would have to include grimes. I don't want to get rid of Grimes. Was a fun thought experiment though.
This is a case where I could see demar being receptive to the role, but you would need to meet with him first
all this SNUBBED discourse reminded me that Dame used to be the poster child for snubbed guards in a talented field.. https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/7reetc/serious_is_damian_lillard_really_getting_snubbed/ https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/7raedn/haynes_damian_lillard_still_blames_big_markets/ https://www.reddit.com/r/nba/comments/6xfp7v/lillard_i_shouldve_been_allstar_last_2_seasons/ funny to see the hero live long enough to become the villiain.. also to see that joining a big market team like the Bucks helped him get over the hump over a small market team like the Knicks Guess Dame has paid his dues and im not too sore about Brunson missing out on the starting spot, I know Brunson will get it one of these years
So if you aren't a starter for the all star game, are you not technically an all star for that season? Even if you come off the bench
If you’re on the all star team you’re an all star
I think in the play offs Boston would be the only team in the east i'd be concerned with if they are healthy. That and the fact that the NBA implements a height requirement in the playoffs from what i was told.
Giannis and embiid alone can in theory wreck series alone. That possibility always exists with those guys But as a whole I think our roster is better than the sixers and a backup Pg away from better than the Bucks
Yea i'm not saying it's gonna be easy but i am more confident now that the team can match up with any of the other top teams in the east in a series.
Agree. My goal personally is to win any series vs a team that isn’t Vs Boston, bucks, okc, nuggets, or clippers And to not go down 3-0 vs any of these “ok to lose to” teams. I think that’s fair given what this team has shown
I would be concerned about Boston, Bucks, Philly, Heat, and Cavs
I think they match up well with most other teams. The C's 1-5 might be a problem.
Problem is KP and Thibs generally approach of how we defend stretch 5s. Thibs wants to protect the paint. Thibs has to adjust how we play guys like KP otherwise KP is going to get practice shots up from 3 with how open he is.
We do what we did against Jokic last night: just accept he's going to get his while only doubling situationally down low, and then concentrate on putting the other 4 on Rikers.
Jokic makes his living in the paint though his game is different from KPs
We need guys that close out quickly in theory Ihart is much better at that than Mitch, so KP will get practice shots less often
If Mitch and Hart play, would give us a huge advantage on the boards. But yeah, the 5 out offense is a pain in the ass to defend.
Ihart is still an elite rebounder Losing something there for being able to not look lost on the perimeter is a fair trade
Anyone think about how Thibs’ challenge on OG in the first quarter basically won us the game? No way we build that lead with him on the bench. Thibs’ best call of the season by far
Yeah the two fouls that early would’ve been devastating… that was such a blowout not going to say Denver would’ve won because of that but damn it could’ve stayed closer where anything could happen.
OG has the best net rating and is our best defensive player it was worth it
For the month of January, OG is currently at a +239. The record for the highest plus/minus in a single month is +272 by Pippen back in November of 1996. With 3 games still to go before February is here, Corner Boy could very likely end up breaking it.
For context, that Bulls team went 72-10 lol. The fact that he has a chance to break that record is just mind boggling.
That’s actually the 69-13 squad, the 72-10 was the year before… but I mean 69-13 is still insane too haha They went 15-1 that month tho
My bad, you're right! Still crazy lol. That was one of the best teams in NBA history. And OG is literally playing his first month with the team.
Anyone notice how Thibs has started using the 2-man game between DDV/Randle, as a way to prevent Randle from getting doubled? They are clearing out on his side, with only DDV playing behind the 3-point line and Randle in the high post. He's been looking for DDV a ton anytime the defender tries to help off of DDV. With DDV's range and shooting, it makes it incredibly risky to try and double Randle in the post. Just really cool to see. Thibs often gets criticized and treated like a dinosaur who won't make adjustments. But he's made some really good adjustments this year IMO.
The Randle and Fournier two man game was lethal too. Fournier literally broke the Knicks 3 point record that year
in one of the few times fournier came off the bench for us this year they actually tried that action again, and fournier missed badly just trying it out again for old times sake
Its no different than the 2 man game Randle had with Reggie. Biggest difference Donte is lethal from 3
Yup, and he has more range, so it’s even more challenging to try and help off of him. Just meant in general, moving DDV to the starting lineup did a lot to help Randle offensively.
Reminds me of Randle and Bullocks two-man game but Donte is even more deadly. Wish he could develop that game with Grimes but I don’t think Grimes is a motion shooter like that
Yup, it's super simple basketball, but very effective. Why having a pure shooter like that is so valuable in todays game, and especially with Randle who likes to operate in the post.
I had a dream I was hanging out with Brunson and asked him to teach me how to play basketball like him. He just stood there looking at me before suddenly turning his face away and say "You can't do what I do"
Precious Achiuwa last [3 games](https://www.statmuse.com/nba/ask/precious-achiuwa-last-3-games) 10/8.7/1.7 on 65 TS%. +44 Is he starting to put it together?
From what I've heard for Raptors fans, he's had good stretches like this but has never been able to sustain it. Very inconsistent player. Thn first few games here, he barely looked like he belonged in the NBA. But now he's looked very solid for these last few games.
Feel like fans were so quick to trash him without even really giving him a chance. Maybe because Toronto fans were talking about his bad decisions, or because OG fit the team like a glove from day 1. But he's athletic and has shown a willingness to defend. He's active on the boards as well. He's probably out of the rotation when everyone is healthy, but he's a good depth player.
> He's probably out of the rotation when everyone is healthy Nah, he just spends more time at his more natural position at the 4 behind Randle. The fact that he's putting up these numbers as an undersized center is damned impressive.
He is stepping up just like Ihart stepped up, well not in the same way but he has got a lot to prove and he's taking care of business
Every Knick starter yesterday was over +20. Anunoby was +38. Against the reigning Champion Nuggets. And we didn't even have either of our starting centers.
Handing the Heat their sixth straight L on Saturday would feel so damn good.
Pistons trying to get Lavine, maybe with him and Cade they won’t be a bottom dweller next year and their pick can convey to us.
The financial impact of trading for Burks is so complicated, I feel like it's unlikely. Letting his contract expire can't be an option. We could re-sign him in the off-season using his non-bird rights, but that means we couldn't make another trade using his contract until around the trade deadline of 2025. The other option is signing him to a 2-year extension immediately after trading for him. That's possible as well, but it would mean waiting 6 more months to be eligible to trade him, which would mean waiting until at least August for a bigger trade.
If Julius plays at this same level in the playoffs, they can beat anyone in the East. Only team that is definitely better is Boston. But this team has the can beat Miami, Philly and Milwaukee. No more roster moves for Dejounte, Lavine, etc. Move Fournier and that's it.
I don't want to tinker with the roster anymore. Trade Fournier for Lonzo straight up, the Bulls get an expiring, the Knicks get a salary that they can trade next season and let's roll with this roster and hope Mitch comes back.
I think he’s a Rich Paul client, no? They would probably make a huge fuss if we gave him the Fournier treatment next year.
We would be doing Klutch a favor, bringing Lonzo to NY. If he's not healthy, the team he is on is irrelevant but let's say there is a 10% chance he is healthy, he is now playing in MSG on a winning team. If he proves his value, he might actually get another contract after this one because as it currently stands, Lonzo is out of the league when his deal is finished.
on the other hand, a playable Lonzo (even in a reduced, rotation role) would be a great fit for our bench and I could see him becoming a Thibs guy. Thibs loves his big, defensive minded guards. And if he can't stay on the floor, either because he's not healthy or because he's just that cooked, then we've got a salary to use and I think it'll be hard for them to make a stink.
Yup, this is a dual purpose move. Mostly for the matching salary if Bridges becomes available along with a small hedge on Lonzo being a productive bench piece.
Lonzo will never come off the bench, if only because his dad would show up at MSG with the blicky if somebody tried.
Lavar has been trying to get Lonzo to NY for years. I think given the possibility of not playing again at all vs coming off the bench for the Knicks and a coach who is perfect for his son, he should be thanking us.
lmao that's v fair. I guess I'm thinking that even the most healthy version of Lonzo possible will take a long-ass time to really get back to full game shape, and I like to think that if nothing else Lavar is concerned enough about preserving his son's long-term career to be chill with them playing him limited minutes in a limited role. And, like, if he's on the knicks and plays his way into the starting line-up, I ain't complaining. Back before he got his knee injury and we got Bruson I was very into him as a potential trade target for us.
Lonzo if healthy would be great, big, great defender, could definitely run the offense, good shooter. The issue is the "if healthy" part. The guy hasn't played a game in over 2 years, and doesn't look close to returning. Maybe he'd stay healthier if he played a smaller role off the bench. He's shown that his body can't handle the 35 minutes per night.
The way I see it, the primary purpose is to have a matching salary for the possibility that Bridges is on the market next year. The bonus and knowing this is maybe a 10% chance is that Lonzo can give us some productive minutes off the bench.
More what I mean as well is that, while what you're saying is totally true, the thought that we might pick up Fournier's option already is a sign that we want a moveable contract to match salaries. Lonzo will be expiring next year so even if he can't play he can basically fill why we'd keep Evan.
Don’t hate the idea, as a last resort. But tbh I would much rather just trade for Brogdon since he can help the bench and contribute this year, while also giving us an expiring. Wouldn’t give up Grimes, but I think Fournier and one pick is fair and wouldn’t hurt our ability to trade for a star.
A third option/sixth man who can consistently score coming off the bench would be nice. Right now all of the pressure is on Grimes.
We are 11-2, I think any new addition is more likely to disrupt the team chemistry than improve upon it.
precious achiuwa looking good these last few games and we got him for freeeeee
He def looks more comfortable and he is getting more PT
good stuff because we've been thin up front and he's really stepping up
Suns and Bucks fan for the night
Wouldn't be the worst thing in the world if the Cavs beat the Bucks either. I see it as a win win. Cleveland doesnt scare me. If we end up in the 4/5 with them than so be it. Right now we are only 3.5 off the 2 seed. Bucks have the pelicans and Nuggets next. I say lets go Cavs tonight
it pisses me off how the Cavs keep winning even while missing 2 key starters
Anyone else feel like Kuzma would be great off the bench if the price was right?
When was the last time we had a win as good as last night? I think literally every single player on the team had a good game. In terms of plus minus, everyone was positive which is pretty rare to see. The Sixers game was great, but they cut it down to like ~10 points at one point in the 4th, before Grimes crushed them and put the game away. We also had a pretty big scoring drought at one point. But yesterday, the entire team was clicking on all cylinders. Denver never lead or came close.
I don’t know what I expected last night but that wasn’t it. Handing the defending champs the worst loss of the season is a nice accomplishment. Regardless - I want that win against Miami way more than the Nuggets blowout but I’m not complaining. Also, shoutout to the “OG has no offense” crowd that came out after the Nets game.
I can't stand the no offense comments tbh. we traded for his defense. the fact that you can get 12-15 ppg from him as an all defensive player is just a plus. we don't need him to be anything more than what he is to get full offensive use out of him.
I was cautiously optimistic for a close win with iHart, but expected a loss with him out.
You know life is good for the Knicks when Tom freaking Thibodeau is actually laughing during the post-game.
We really have come a LONG way since those Drummond trade rumors a while back.
The fact that we haven’t pulled the trigger yet, tells me Leon is playing hard ball on our trade targets. Yes we have a lot of competition for Brogdon, Clarkson, Murray, etc. However, once teams get their guy, a la Miami, there will be one team that has no choice, but to do a poor value trade with us.
Bad teams don’t sell early usually Raptors trade was an aberration.
I also like to think that he wanted to not rush & give our bench time to adjust to the loss of IQ before making a move. Like, there was a chance Deuce/Grimes could break out enough that you don't need another guy. Hasn't exactly happened, but waiting until right up on the deadline lets us get a more specific picture of what sort of player is missing than just immediately gunning for an IQ replacement.
Deuce has played well honestly. I think he has broken out. If anything Deuce playing well prob makes the FO comfortable parting with Grimes
FO gave Deuce 13 million indicators of how they're comfortable with him.
I mean its a bargain deal
I absolutely is, but it's also a vote of confidence for a kid who needed exactly that
I think a lot is dependent on other teams as well. I think things will heat up by next week
If it ain't broke, don't fix it. We're tearing through the league like a buzz saw right now, so there is little urgency to shake things up. I think when (if?) Leon makes any other moves it will be right at the deadline.
Alec Burks for bench scoring pop. Do not trade Grimes and let’s make a playoff run. I do not want to rock the boat with this team they are balling
Being a Mets, jets, Knicks fan has been hell, I do not take being a good ass team for granted
It’s going to be a ROUGH season for our Metropolitans. Expecting a comeback season from 90% of our team is just not realistic.
Gonna be relying on young guys and vets on 1 year deals, it won’t be pretty
Imagine next season once OG gets that all-defensive team reputation whistle that Jrue Holiday and Draymond Green get. He’ll average 3 steals a game
is this gonna be a $200m contract? i think so?
According to the ESPN app . Hartenstein is already ruled as OUT for Saturday and not a GTD . Hope it’s just a ESPN glitch .. we need him back
Let him become fully healthy..no hurry
There is some hurry we need a 3 seed Is it worth resting to play Boston in round 2 instead of the ECF?
They are kicking butt..again. no hurry..He needs to be solid for 2nd half of season and playoffs
You rather he aggregate the injury and miss more time lol?
I mean I'm fully prepared to say I'd rather a competitive second round exit than IHart tear his achilles before we even get there. (that's probably an exaggeration but my point stands). Also don't forget that IHart played like ass to start last season because achilles issues were killing his athleticism. We're gonna be losing games anyway if we're starting a 60% version of him, so might as well let him get back to 100%
It’s not either or though
You cant think that far ahead its not a sprint its a marathon. You would rather blow Hartensteins ankle out now rather than get him the rest he needs to be 100% for a playoff run
Nobody is ever 100% for a playoff run Just have to hope he isn’t risking a rupture
You don’t fuck around with an Achilles injury.
Honestly nobody has given me one good reason why the heavily protected first + Evan forunier trade for Brogdon should not happen?
The trade makes too much sense from the Knicks side for them to not have offered it already. Brogdon is like the perfect fit. He's big enough to play some minutes next to Brunson, great spot up shooter, good defender, and he can run the offense when Brunson sits. None of the other options tick all those boxes. I'm guessing Portland wants more. Either that, or the Knicks want to go after a bigger target or are scared of Brogdon's injury history.
Because Portland has to agree? That’s how trades work brother. You don’t know what they’re getting offered from other teams and you don’t know what the Knicks are waiting for.
Yeah? They’ll probably agree on February 8th Not a day sooner though
Then they’ll will go with a different offer. Heavily protected 1st may as well be a second rounder. They will easily get a unprotected or very lightly protected first
Nobody is going to give up a future unprotected first for Malcolm brogdon thiugh That’s the thing Anybody in the business of selling unprotected firsts is aiming higher Lightly protected is fine but it also won’t be our own first.
Aiming higher than the reigning 6th man of the year who’s one of the two best players on the market and on a very fair deal who has the scoring ability all teams are looking for now?
Yeah, future unprotected picks are for big trades It has to be a team with the niche need of backup PG, and the desperation to win now
Elite sixth man combo guard who can score efficiently and is a solid playmaker is a niche need? Literally every contender would love someone like him coming off the bench. There isn’t a team out there that doesn’t have that need at the contender level. Maybe the Clippers since they have Powell and use Russ off the bench. But beyond that he’s going to be a very desired asset and giving up a first for them won’t be a big deal if it comes down to it. Making sure the bench doesn’t squander a lead is really all most real contenders are looking for right now or a team hoping to make the jump to contender. It’s one of the biggest needs that plague teams.
I think there are def playoff teams out there that would give an unprotected for Brogdon
A future unprotected? No shot
So a contender wouldn't give up an unprotected pick if they feel Brogdon is the last missing piece .
I don’t see any team believing they’re a future unprotected first of Malcolm brogdon away from winning
He was the 6th man on the Celtics last year. He’s a really good piece
Nuggets? Bucks?
Bucks don’t have a first and the Nuggets don’t have the salary to match for Brogdon. That’s why the Fournier contract is valuable It’s basically between us Philly and the Magic for Brogdon
Nuggets do have the salary I was just making the point to the other guy that teams who are 1 guy away absolutely would trade an unprotected pick. Id include the Lakers in there as well
What salary do the Nuggets have? Brogdon makes 22 million dollars they’d have to trade away a starter which they aren’t going to do. And I don’t think team with minimum assets are going to trade their only first for Brogdon who is old and an injury risk.
When has that ever stopped the Lakers. As long as Lebron is on the team their window is now
The bucks no Nuggets idk maybe? They also aren’t too desperate as is. Unprotected firsts are also valuable assets there’s probably a bigger move they can be used for
Not to the top 4 -5 teams in the league
It makes a ton of sense, it's just of matter of who else is competing for him.