Knicks Trade Rumors: Rounding up the latest buzz as NBA trade deadline nears
Rumor: New York Isn’t Eager To Trade Kyle O’Quinn
The Milwaukee Bucks and Golden State Warriors are unlikely to be the only teams interested in New York Knicks center Kyle O’Quinn. His appeal ranges beyond two teams, as he has the tools to contribute to a contender on both ends of the floor.
According to Michael Scotto of The Athletic, however, the Knicks aren’t exactly champing at the bit to deal their coveted big man.
"Even though Kyle O’Quinn is expected to opt out of his player option this summer, the Knicks aren’t desperate to move him for a second-round pick."
That may come as a surprise to some, but there’s an understandable line of thinking behind this potential approach.
New York has every reason to trade O’Quinn before the Feb. 8 trade deadline. He’s expected to opt out of his current contract in roughly five months, and he’ll likely receive more lucrative offers than the Knicks can afford to offer.
Throw in the fact that his presence contributes to the logjam at center, and O’Quinn could be as good as gone come July.
In saying that, O’Quinn is also the type of player whom the Knicks would like to keep long-term. He’s a defensive-minded player whose effort is never questioned, as well as a New York City native whom fans can relate to.
Whether or O’Quinn is worth more on the roster or the open market has yet to be determined, but it’s understandable for the organization to view him as an asset worth keeping.