SPANISH HARLEM – Let’s talk Giannis Antetokounmpo rumors that has taken up every New York Knicks (who beat the Raptors last night) fan life the last couple of months. While most people would jump at the chance to get the Greek Freak, I find myself wondering whether if it’s the right time to blow things up. What we need to ask is whether it’s better to pull the trigger now, so let’s take a look at that now and whether it’s even possible.
I’m sure you got the news that the Milwaukee Bucks are currently taking offers for Giannis (I know you are shocked). With that, the Bucks will want the best possible offers for him and nothing short of good players and draft picks will make it happen. The Knicks at the moment have no draft picks to spare, as they gave up most of what they could trade to the Brooklyn Nets for Mikal Bridges.
The main rumor flying around has the Knicks trading Bridges to Portland Trailblazers for Jrue Holiday – and potentially – some Bucks’ picks added to seal the deal. What makes this interesting is that the Bucks traded those picks to Portland for Damian Lillard (who is no longer on the team). As you can imagine, those picks would be intriguing to them if they intend to rebuild after a trade. This would have Karl-Anthony Towns going to Milwaukee with the picks and another player to match salary need to complete the trade.
What makes me skeptical about all this is the fact that Giannis has not been healthy this season and is currently on the injured list again. You also add another player in Jrue who is on the wrong side of 35 with Bridges being 29 years old. If Giannis is not healthy, all of this is a wash, and you are looking at another playoff exit. On the other hand, while an NBA Finals Championship isn’t guaranteed, Giannis would be a major upgrade for this club. You do get older as a roster and the championship window decreases, but none of that matters if they can win it all this season.
What do you think the Knicks should do?
That’s it for now, please come back tomorrow for more great content from Jackson Sternberg.
