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3 silver linings of Knicks not trading for Cavaliers’ Donovan Mitchell

By Jordanna Clark

CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 23: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts during the second quarter against the Washington Wizards at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on October 23, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 23: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts during the second quarter against the Washington Wizards at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on October 23, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. 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 Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks, Immanuel Quickley, Obi Toppin
Immanuel Quickley, Obi Toppin, New York Knicks. (Photo by Tom Horak/USA TODAY Sports) /

1: Knicks’ depth

If Donovan Mitchell would’ve been traded to the Knicks, the team’s depth would’ve taken a hit. Along with the three unprotected first-round picks that Ainge and the Jazz wanted, New York would’ve had to say goodbye to some combination of players between Obi Toppin, Immanuel Quickley, Quentin Grimes, Cam Reddish, and Miles McBride.

The Knicks’ bench has stood out so far this season, and Grimes has yet to play in a game due to a sore left foot. Toppin has proven that he’s more than ready to take on an increased role, Quickley’s game has taken a turn, and Reddish has a chance to be a regular face in the rotation based on how he’s looked. New York’s depth is going to be a reason why the team will be able to win games against better opponents.

Mitchell’s production on the offensive end would have set the Knicks apart. There’s no doubt about that. Because he’s with the Cavaliers though, New York got to keep hold of its young core. The Knicks’ bench has a level of talent that other teams can’t match.

After ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski shocked the NBA world by reporting that Donovan Mitchell was going to Cleveland, disappointment flooded New York’s fan base. Here we are nearly two months later, and things aren’t looking near as bad as they did then. And you know what would make things even better? A win over the Cavaliers tonight.

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