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NBA Trade Rumors: Knicks target Rudy Gay as NY wants bench upgrade

| Aug 11, 2016 10:40 AM EDT

Sacramento Kings forward Rudy Gay.

Rumors abound that the New York Knicks are preparing a trade package to snag forward Rudy Gay from the Sacramento Kings as the team wants to upgrade its second unit heading into the new season.

Initial rumors have emerged that the Kings are shopping around the 29-year-old NBA veteran this summer as the relationship between player and club is deteriorating. However, no team has yet to approach Vlade Divac and company for the services of the former Connecticut standout.

Gay has been vocal during recent interviews about his current confusion on the team's direction moving forward and his desire for stability. He even cited the conditions of Los Angeles Clippers' Paul Pierce and Jamal Crawford as examples of what he would want to be at this point of his career.

Some believe that these so-called rants from the 10-year pro indicate that he is unhappy in Sacramento and would want to be traded as soon as possible.

There were also reports about Gay expressing his desire to join the Miami Heat next season and the feeling is said to be mutual for the South Florida franchise.

However, Inquisitr noted that the Knicks are also one of the teams who are interested in acquiring the disgruntled wingman as new head coach Jeff Hornacek is still looking to address the remaining needs of his squad, especially on the bench.

The report said that "the Knicks are not finished making offseason moves" as "they need a bench upgrade, and Rudy Gay would give New York's second unit a big offensive lift".

While Gay will certainly be of great help to any bench in the NBA right now, he could also play a key role to the Knicks starting lineup if the opportunity arises.

As of the moment, New York's starting five are Joakim Noah, Kristaps Porzingis, Carmelo Anthony, Courtney Lee, and Derrick Rose. With his versatility, Gay can fill-up the starting four, three, and two positions if anyone in the first five needs to rest during the stretch of the season.

Meanwhile, Fansided indicated that trading for Gay is "a relatively bad option" for the Knicks. The report cited that the acquisitions of wingmen Lance Thomas and Mindaugas Kuzminskas as already enough to fill the bench needs of the squad.

It also noted that the cost of bringing Gay to New York may not be something that the Knicks are prepared to give up at the moment.

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