NFL
With rumors swirling that Marcus Morris is on the trade block, Scott Perry must not let him go for nothing. The whispers are that the New York Knicks are seeking a first-rounder and a star player in return for Morris but what team is willing to surrender that?
The Knicks have stated they want a star package for Morris. That’s not going to happen considering Morris is not deemed a star in the NBA. Perry will have to learn the hard way that no team fighting for lottery position will be willing to offer up a first-round pick between 1-14 for Morris. Now, a team in playoff contention may make that move but the Knicks will get in return a late first-rounder between 20-30. Is that good enough for them?
Morris had played well this season with averages of 17.8 points and 6.7 rebounds while shooting 45.7 percent from the floor. However, the Knicks still find themselves at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. Changes must be made. The Knicks have failed to place a cohesive unit on the floor and moving the veteran could give them better options.
The other reason for a move is the contract. With teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Lakers and possibly the Houston Rockets in the market for better bench production, the Knicks could strike gold. This will put them in a position to actually save money.
Knicks Trade Rumors: ‘No Plans’ to Move Marcus Morris Amid 76ers, Clippers Buzz https://t.co/xPvTt6onvf pic.twitter.com/BeEl2VGaQ6
— New York Knicks (@Updates_knicks) January 9, 2020
On the season, Morris is averaging 19,1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists while shooting .438 percent from the field including .469 percent from three-point territory.
If the Knicks can get cheaper players or a pick in return, that will save them the hassle of offering Marcus Morris a max deal in the summer of 2020 that he’s sure to command. But this is still the Knicks we’re discussing plus coupled with trade rumors and as quick as the news comes, it could vanish.
Moving him now makes sense, what it will come down to are assets. How much are the Knicks willing to surrender for a huge return? Morris is a solid player and will be a key contributor for a contending team but is he enough to rebuild the Knicks? No. A late first round pick is his value and the Knicks must come to terms with that.
