Tony Allen (Photo : NBAE via Getty Images)
The New York Knicks could consider trading for Memphis Grizzlies veteran Tony Allen, who could be available before the February 2017 trade deadline.
The Memphis Grizzlies are reportedly receiving calls for Allen and listening to offers from rival teams, according to Ronald Tillery of The Commercial Appeal. It remains to be seen whether the Grizzlies really eye unloading Allen as he has been an essential key piece for the franchise in the past six years, but his rumored availability could be an opportunity for the Knicks to improve their roster.
The Knicks are sitting at the No. 5 spot in the East and are poised to finally end the franchise's three-consecutive seasons of playoff drought. But playing mediocre defense may not help New York come postseason grind, with the team 26th in the league in defensive rating and averaging 107.9 points allowed per 100 possessions.
Trading for Allen would instantly boost the team's defense, giving the Knicks a premiere on-ball defender who could play major minutes off the bench. Allen's presence would help balance New York's offensively talented starting core, while giving the team a key cog on the defensive end. However, any potential deal for Allen could be costly and risky for the Knicks.
Allen is set to become an unrestricted free agent next year, which could make a one-year rental for the Knicks. Despite his impending free agency, the Grizzlies won't probably trade Allen at a cheap price, with Memphis also in contention in the West.
Swapping Brandon Jennings for Allen would work under the NBA salary guidelines, with the latter also on an expiring contract after signing a one-year deal with the Knicks this past summer. However, it is unclear whether the Knicks would consider such move, especially with Jennings serving as insurance for an injury-prone Derrick Rose.
The Knicks are have plenty of options to consider as the trade deadline draws near. Allen could certainly be an option for the Knicks, but may not be worth the risk to explore, especially if it would mean losing their top backup PG. Nevertheless, it would be intriguing to see both teams work out a deal to improve each other's chances of competing well in the playoffs.
Video courtesy: YouTube/FreeDawkins
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