Knicks Trade Rumors: Five NYK players garnering trade interest

Lance Thomas

Every great team needs a glue guy who can do the little things that help keep a team together. They rarely receive the glory or the accolades, but their ability to fill any number of roles makes them a coach’s dream as far as the rotation is concerned.

When the New York Knicks have been winning over the past three seasons, the most common trend has been Lance Thomas playing a prominent role.

Thomas doesn’t offer much statistically, but he competes defensively and seems to hit the big shots when they count. He’s just as likely to be the player who dives for a loose ball as he is the player who hits the big shot when nothing else is falling.

According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, there has been trade interest in Thomas since the beginning of the 2017-18 regular season.

"Several teams have expressed interest in wings Courtney Lee and Lance Thomas, as has been the case dating back to the beginning of the season."

The reluctance to trade the veterans this early in the season makes sense, but over the next two weeks, the tone could change.

Dealing Lee or Thomas could net an intriguing return, but they have value to the organization. Whether or not it wins at a postseason-caliber level in 2017-18, New York is attempting to create a defensive-minded culture—one that Lee and Thomas would contribute to.

If Thomas were to be traded, however, he could likely command a second-round draft pick or an underachieving younger player who needs a change of scenery.

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Nothing is imminent at this point in time, but the New York Knicks have five players who have garnered significant trade interest.