Grading 3 Knicks trade packages to acquire 76ers superstar Joel Embiid
By Tyler Watts
1. Knicks go all-in for Joel Embiid
Daryl Morey showed his stubbornness in the Ben Simmons standoff. Remember, the 6’10 point guard was an All-Star three straight years before his epic playoff collapse and trade demand. Morey could have sold low, but he waited for the right move. It took until February, but nothing phased the Sixers president.
He will do the same if Joel Embiid requests a trade. Expect Morey to set a price and wait for an opposing team to meet it. The Knicks can and will be forced to offer a ton to get the reigning MVP.
R.J. Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and Quentin Grimes are the three young players New York is willing to offer. All three are already key rotation pieces on a playoff team with upside. The 76ers get a strong start to their rebuild, including a 25-year-old starting-caliber center and five first-rounders.
The Knicks will not be eager to part with all these pieces, but this is the moment they have waited for. Joel Embiid is a superstar and one of the top five players in the world right now. New York may not get another chance to acquire this level of talent.
Knicks grade: B-
The New York Knicks would have a roster instantly ready to contend. Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo can flank Embiid in the starting five. They must improve their depth, but getting an alpha is the top priority.
Will the Knicks land Joel Embiid over the next year? Keep an eye on the 76ers drama, and stay tuned for all the latest.
