It looks like Phil Jackson really wants the New York Knicks to be a playoff contender now.
The Knicks president of basketball operation has just relieved Derek Fisher from his head coaching post amid their latest slump. Not only that, Jackson also addressed that they are going to make some moves before the trade deadline closes on February 18.
Six straight losses have put the Knicks further from the eight spot in a very competitive Eastern Conference playoff race.
Although Carmelo Anthony (21.1 ppg and 7.8 rpg) and rookie sensation Kristaps Porzingis (13.8 ppg, 7.7 rpg, and 1.9 bpg) are putting up solid numbers, they aren't getting much help from their supporting casts.
Knicks eyeing Jeff Teague - the Knicks are in the bottom of the NBA ranking in terms of pace and points scored off drives. According to Ian Begley of ESPN, the Knicks are looking to address these issues through a trade, and apparently, they already have a target in Atlanta Hawks point guard Jeff Teague.
Fact or Fiction: The Hawks are reportedly looking to break their core by selling one of their key players at trade deadline. Teague is one of them.
The 27-year old Teague is averaging 15.1 points and 5.4 assists per game this season, but the Hawks are seriously considering in giving the starting role to young playmaker Dennis Schroder.
Real GM confirmed that the Hawks are entertaining trade offers for Teague, Al Horford and Kyle Korver, though their asking price is reportedly scaring away any suitor.
Many executive believes the Knicks trade assets outside Anthony and Porzingis are underwhelming. However, Begley thinks the Knicks can still work out a deal with the Hawks, especially if they include Arron Afflalo or Derrick Williams as trade chips. It's a fact.
Brandon Jennings remains on trade radar: Begley also disclosed that the Knicks continue to monitor Brandon Jennings' availability on the trading block. The Detroit Pistons guard is coming off an ACL injury and averaging 6.4 points and 3.1 assists.
Fact or Fiction: It's a fact. Improving their point guard rotation is no.1 priority for the Knicks heading into the All-Star break. Jose Calderon is clearly not the ideal playmaker for the Knicks moving forward. Jennings has a reputation for taking questionable shot selections, but Jackson seems ready to gamble on the explosive combo guard.