As the trade deadline rapidly approaches, many are left wondering, what are the Knicks going to do? After another lost season, one big rumor that has popped up frequently is Marcus Morris sent on his way out of New York. If the Knicks have any sense they should not let this happen.
If Marcus Morris is dealt at the trade deadline, the Knicks are looking to only acquire a late first-round pick as the only teams that would be looking to trade for Morris are teams that would have a shot at contending for a title.
Marcus Morris has been the heart and soul of the Knicks this season. He’s currently averaging 19.4 PPG this season and has given this team his all. He’s fought in every game all season long and as of late has clearly emerged as the leader for the team this season.
There is a slim to none chance that whatever late first-round pick the Knicks would take with the 1st acquired for Morris would put up the production he’s given this season for the Knicks.
Instead of shipping Marcus Morris out of New York, the Knicks should retain him for the rest of the season and resign him during the off-season. Morris is exactly the kind of leader that the Knicks need right now. He’s hard-working, dedicated and knows how to score just as well as many NBA all-stars.
Marcus Morris has stood up for the Knicks all season and has proven they aren’t a team that is going to be pushed around. He’s gotten in other player’s faces, fought and defended his fellow teammates and changed the overall competitive attitude of the team. When Morris is in the game, this team shows some sense of identity and is more competitive than when he is off the court.
Marcus Morris also doesn’t want to leave this team. Morris has said in multiple reports that he would prefer to stay a Knicks and not be traded by the deadline. This one thing alone is huge because Morris has the opportunity to join a contending team and potentially become an NBA Champion but he’s choosing to stay on a losing team and help participate in its long rebuild.
Marcus Morris knows this team isn’t going to compete this season but, with a good offseason and development from its young players they could be in a position to make a playoff run as soon as next year.
Morris is a quality player that can be resigned to a reasonable contract once this offseason begins. He would be a fantastic addition to any championship contending team so why not stay in New York and help rebuild a winning culture?
This looks to be a very interesting trade deadline for the New York Knicks as many players could be traded for draft assets or young players if the right deal is made. However, if the Knicks want to stay competitive, keeping Marcus Morris is a must.