New York Knicks Receive: G CJ McCollum
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: G Evan Fournier, F Kevin Knox II, F Obi Toppin, 2022 First-Round Pick (via CHA), 2023 First-Round Pick (via DAL)
The New York Knicks have a ton of assets, and in this scenario, they unload some to bring in a borderline All-Star talent in CJ McCollum. McCollum has thrived playing alongside Damian Lillard, but could really spread his wings as the go-to player in New York.
McCollum is a legitimate three-level scorer, as he gets it done from everywhere on the court. His efficiency has dropped a little bit this season, but he is still a dangerous scorer averaging 20.3 points to go with 4.5 assists per game.
To get him, the Knicks pay up in draft capital. They hit the reset button on the Evan Fournier signing, which is what one of the first-round draft picks is a sweetener for. He will help keep the Trail Blazers competitive with his scoring prowess.
Portland will also get a look at two young players in Kevin Knox II and Obi Toppin. Knox is in the final season of his rookie deal and needs an opportunity at playing time to continue his development.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Knicks, Lakers Among Trade Suitors Linked To Pistons’ Jerami Grant
Toppin is the crown jewel for Trail Blazers. He has been excellent in his second season but as long as Julius Randle is entrenched as the starter and Tom Thibodeau doesn’t play small, there won’t be much playing time for Toppin. He deserves more playing time, but it is hard to envision it coming with the Knicks.
Portland is netting a second first-round pick in this deal as well. For a team that could potentially rebuild on the fly, those picks are important.
