The New York Knicks sit at 21-22 as the NBA trade deadline rapidly approaches. While the record isn't going to wow many, it's still a mark that has exceeded the expectations that many had for Tom Thibodeau's club entering the season. Not many pegged the Knicks as a team that would be in the mix for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference in 2021 and potentially being buyers at the trade deadline. While it sounds like New York likely won't be making any earth-shaking moves, there is one name that keeps popping up in trade discussions.
According to SNYtv's Ian Begley, the Knick that is most likely to be traded is Austin Rivers. In his post on SNY, Begley notes that the Knicks really like the team chemistry right now and many in the front office don't want to disrupt it by making a massive move at the trade deadline. But Begley goes on to say that one name to keep tabs on is Rivers.
Since acquiring Derrick Rose on February 7, Rivers has completely fallen out of Thibodeau's rotation. He's been away from the team on paternity leave since the all-star break.
Rivers played well off the bench alongside rookie Immanuel Quickley early on in the season when he was in the rotation. But with Quickley, Rose, and Elfrid Payton logging the majority of the minutes at the position, Rivers has fallen out of favor.
If a trade doesn't occur, Begley says a buyout could be another route the Knicks go with Rivers.
In 21 games played this season, Rivers is averaging 7.3 points per game on 36% shooting from 3-point range.
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