Knicks could target DeMar DeRozan in trade with Spurs

All has been quiet on the Western front for the New York Knicks regarding a potential trade before Thursday’s deadline. However, I wouldn’t rule out any last-second acquisitions, with reports indicating that Austin Rivers could be on the move. It would be quite interesting to see the Knicks part ways with a player instead of bringing a star-caliber athlete in, but there are a few options they could entertain in the coming days.

Of course, they have been connected to Pelicans’ Lonzo Ball and JJ Redick, but another name has entered the fold with the San Antonio Spurs reportedly open to dealing DeMar DeRozan.

Per Bleacher Report:

The San Antonio Spurs have made it clear that LaMarcus Aldridge and DeMar DeRozan are available via trade, according to league sources. Gregg Popovich, of course, announced Aldridge and San Antonio’s mutual interest to part ways, yet the rumblings surrounding his destination have remained quiet.

While Aldridge is likely off the table, considering he plays a very similar position to All-Star Julius Randle, DeRozan could be an intriguing option for New York, considering he’s averaging 20.6 points over 34.2 minutes this year. He’s also averaging 7.4 assists and 4.5 total rebounds, and as a versatile player who can feature at multiple positions, he could be a perfect fit. Having earned two All-NBA accolades and four All-Star appearances in his career, DeRozan hasn’t reached either since the 2017-18 season.

That doesn’t mean he lacks value, as he clearly provides offensive prowess and efficiency while on the floor. He’s connecting on .498% of his shots from the field, his second-highest in his career. He’s averaging 1.8 three-point attempts, his highest since the 2017-18 season, and connecting on .310%.

If San Antonio isn’t demanding a massive haul, I actually think DeMar could be a solid fit with the Knicks. At 31 years old, I believe he still has a bit of juice left, and the Knicks could surely use a bit more offensive production after losing three recent games to the 76ers and Nets by no more than six points.