Comparing 6 free agents/trade options to Knicks’ Immanuel Quickley

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 18: Immanuel Quickley #5 of the New York Knicks brings the ball up the court during the second half of the game against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden on March 18, 2022 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images) /

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New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook, Los Angeles Lakers. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) – New York Knicks /

4. Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook has been repeatedly linked to the Knicks for months but given where the team and their young roster stand, it’s a very, very hard pass.

We’ve seen the arguments for this as a way to unload some big contracts for an expiring deal, but knowing Thibodeau, that would result in 40 minutes of Westbrook per night for an entire season.

In his prime, there were few players alongside Westbrook in the league that brought his energy on a nightly basis. But Quickley can far and away match that in 2022, as his energy and enthusiasm are infectious to not only the team but the crowd, too.

Given how much potential and chemistry we saw from New York’s young core at the season’s end, it makes no sense to hinder that with an overpaid veteran who’s arguably on his last legs in the league.

If he were to be cut immediately to free up space for next summer, it’s definitely a possible move that Rose would make. However, as a player who expects to contribute to the Knicks, it’s the least likely option.

Verdict: Once upon a time, Westbrook in The Big Apple would have been magic, but IQ brings enough talent and energy to the team that it makes no sense in 2022.

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