Training camp has been very quiet for the New York Knicks, a welcome change from some in recent NBA seasons. This looks like a model franchise for the first time in a long time. There are no off-the-court issues to speak of, as the focus is solely on the product on the court.
The biggest storyline involving the Knicks heading into the season is what will happen with guard Immanuel Quickley. Quickley, the No. 25 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, is eligible for a rookie scale extension.
The two sides have until the eve of the regular season to get a long-term deal done. While it has been reported that both sides would like to figure something out, nothing has been completed to this point.
Figuring out how much to pay Quickley isn’t easy. He has proven to be an integral part of Tom Thibodeua’s rotation, making an impact whether it is as a starter or sixth man. Does he have the ceiling to become a full-time starter, or will he remain an important bench piece for a contending team?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Immanuel Quickley, New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, Utah Jazz Updates
That is where negotiations get tough, as Quickley and his representatives will be looking to earn as much as possible. The Knicks’ front office led by Leon Rose has done an excellent job with negotiations, and it will be interesting to see how things play out.
There is also a chance that a team will look to trade for Quickley if a deal isn’t done. In that scenario, a few franchises would make sense as fits. The San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, and Utah Jazz were all mentioned as potential suitors.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Immanuel Quickley, New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic, Detroit Pistons, Utah Jazz Updates
It is hard to envision the Magic investing more assets into another guard after using three lottery picks in recent seasons on their backcourt and still having Markelle Fultz. The Pistons also have a potential logjam in the backcourt with Jaden Ivey, Cade Cunningham, Killian Hayes, and Ausar Thompson. The Jazz have Jordan Clarkson, Collin Sexton, and Keontye George handling the point guard spot.
If Quickley hits restricted free agency, the Spurs will be the toughest team to keep away, as they will have a ton of cap space to burn. They can also offer him a starting spot, something the Knicks currently can’t, and none of the other teams mentioned can either.
