The New York Knicks, still looking for an upgrade at the point guard spot, are expected to chase Detroit Pistons playmaker Brandon Jennings at some point between now and February trade deadline, according to Inquistr writer Jacob Street.
Despite missing on big-name free-agents this offseason, President of Basketball Operations Phil Jackson has somehow managed to put a competitive lineup after landing center Brook Lopez, shooting guard Aaron Afflalo and forward Derrick Williams.
Carmelo Anthony is set to return in full speed after going under the knife to address his knee injury. Yet, sources close to situation reported that the Knicks brain trusts aren't sold with Jose Calderon as their starting playmaker for next season.
The Knicks have been linked to several point guards believed to be available on the trade market, including Minnesota Timberwolves playmaker Ricky Rubio. They were also mentioned as one of three teams interested in trading for two-time Sixth Man of the Year winner Jamal Crawford.
However, Street believed there's another player the Knicks would not hesitate to pursue if he ever hits the trading block. He's talking about the 25-year old Jennings, who lost his starting job to Reggie Jackson after suffering an Achilles injury last season.
"The New York Knicks could pursue a mid-season trade for Detroit Pistons point guard Brandon Jennings. Jennings is young, filled with talent, and could bring electricity to the Knicks locker room. According to the Detroit Free Press, Brandon could be available for a trade during the season if Reggie Jackson excels as a starter. Brandon Jennings would be a great long-term investment for Carmelo Anthony," via Fox Sports.
Jennings played 41 games last season, averaging 15.4 points and 6.6 rebounds in 28 minutes per game. He shot 40 percent from the field and 36 percent from the three-point territory.
While Rubio is the more natural playmaker and Crawford more explosive scorer, Jennings can create plays and take over on the offensive end at will. Street feels Jennings would thrive in Jackson's patented triangle offense because of these skills-sets which are necessary to make the triangle work.
Jennings is entitled to pocket roughly $8MM in the final year of his contract - an amount the Knicks won't have hard time to match. Calderon is the Knicks biggest trade chop at this point ($7.4MM), but they can sweeten their offer by including several future picks (likely second-rounders) to its package, (see NBA Trade Machine)