Getty Images – Bruce Brown #11 of the Toronto Raptors reacts during the second half against the New York Knicks.
A surprising development has arisen in the New York Knicks’ pursuit of Bruce Brown. Insider Ian Begley from SNY reports that the Toronto Raptors are considering expanding the trade discussions.
“I have been informed that in one version of the talks, Toronto proposed including Chris Boucher in a trade package for Bruce Brown. I am unsure of the Knicks’ reaction to this,” Begley stated on “The Putback” on February 7.
Ian, @StevePopper, and @Kazeem on The Putback with @IanBegley: t.co/z2CeQoH2Ao
Chris Boucher, a 31-year-old player, is the last remaining member of the Raptors’ championship team in 2019. He is set to earn $11.75 million this season and $10.8 million in the following season.
In order for this trade scenario to work, the Knicks would need to include additional salaries alongside Evan Fournier’s expiring $18.8 million salary. It is unclear if the Raptors still require draft compensation in this particular version of the trade, as they would essentially be unloading Boucher by including Brown.
According to Fred Katz from The Athletic, Quentin Grimes is not expected to be included in the package that the Knicks would send in a potential trade for Brown.
“League sources have revealed that the Knicks have engaged in discussions with the Toronto Raptors regarding Bruce Brown, but Quentin Grimes has not been a part of those conversations. Instead, the talks have primarily focused on Evan Fournier and potential draft compensation for Brown,” Katz reported on February 6.
The Knicks may choose to hold onto Quentin Grimes a little longer, according to Stefan Bondy from the New York Post.
“Based on information from a reliable source, it appears increasingly likely that the Knicks will keep Grimes beyond the trade deadline, especially considering their injury situation and the need for depth. If necessary, they can explore trading him in the summer. Grimes will be eligible for a contract extension before the next season. The Mavericks expressed interest, but the Knicks swiftly rejected their offer,” Bondy wrote on February 6.
Grimes is currently sidelined with a sprained knee and has missed the Knicks’ last three games. He is expected to remain out for the Knicks’ upcoming game following Thursday’s trade deadline against the Mavericks.
THE KNICKS EYEING ALEC BURKS RETURN
The New York Knicks are actively looking to bring back Alec Burks, a favorite of head coach Tom Thibodeau, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. The team is focused on improving their bench scoring and sees Burks as a viable option. Despite the injuries plaguing the team, there is optimism that the players will return soon, allowing the Knicks to maintain their strong position in the standings.
Burks, who currently plays for the Detroit Pistons, is a more affordable trade option for the Knicks compared to Brown. However, the Pistons are hesitant to part ways with Burks. According to The Athletic’s James Edwards III, Detroit is inclined to keep both Burks and Bogdanović unless they receive an enticing offer involving valuable draft picks or talented players.
During his two seasons with the Knicks, Burks showcased his skills, averaging 12.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists. He played a crucial role in the team’s playoff run under Thibodeau. The Knicks’ interest in Burks is shared by other contenders in the league, all vying to acquire him before the trade deadline.
As the Knicks continue to make moves and explore trade possibilities, the return of Alec Burks could provide a much-needed boost to their bench and overall scoring. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.