New York Knicks: Five takeaways from 2018 media day

2. Courtney Lee’s response to trade rumors

Last week, Marc Berman of The New York Post reported Courtney Lee’s interest in a trade to a contender. The New York Knicks shopped him during the offseason, but nothing came to fruition, so he entered media day with positivity.

However, the trade topic arrived shortly into Lee’s media availability. He said a “source” put out the rumor without speaking to him, but said he’s still excited to be a Knick and part of the culture change.

To trade Lee, New York must find someone to take the remaining two years and $25 million left on his contract. That figure might not sound expensive in today’s elevated salary cap, but to open more money for the 2019 offseason, it could prove costly in a trade.

To remove Lee’s salary, the Knicks might need to take on another multi-year contract. If not that, include a future draft pick to tempt a prospective suitor, which they expressed no interest in.

The situation can trend in different direction, however, if a contender feels Lee is a necessary push to push them towards a playoff push before the trade deadline. His salary may not matter as much then and give the Knicks the desired extra $12.75 million to operate with in July.