Daily Knicks
Fansided

Knicks get a sniper but give up Obi Toppin in proposed trade

By Josh Cornelissen

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 03: Obi Toppin #1 of the New York Knicks in action against the Dallas Mavericks at Madison Square Garden on December 03, 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. Dallas Mavericks defeated the New York Knicks 121-100. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 03: Obi Toppin #1 of the New York Knicks in action against the Dallas Mavericks at Madison Square Garden on December 03, 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. Dallas Mavericks defeated the New York Knicks 121-100. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 3
Next
New York Knicks
Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

Why the Knicks would make this trade

The New York Knicks want to position themselves to trade for the next star. To do that, they need to build a team that is ready to win when they get that star — shooting helps with that. Additionally, they need to prepare their books for that move, so shedding Fournier’s contract now sets them up for later.

Losing Obi Toppin hurts, but if the Knicks keep Randle then his role is always going to be minute. On most teams, he can play at the 4 and 5, but on the Knicks, there is a traditional center and a power forward who plays 40 minutes ahead of him. Trading him for value makes sense.

Beasley would be able to pair with the defensive-minded backcourt players in the rotation to survive while on the court, and his shooting and high volume of attempts will provide space inside for the Knicks’ scoring stars. If the Knicks can add him without sacrificing their future flexibility, it makes sense.

Would this deal happen? It seems very possible, and it’s been discussed already. If so the Jazz and Knicks could both walk away having accomplished their goal.

Home/Knicks Rumors