Tobias Harris had underwhelming Christmas Day numbers, with only eight points and six rebounds in 37 minutes, but the Philadelphia 76ers were still able to beat the New York Knicks, 119-112, to extend their winning streak to eight.
Harris is rumored to be a trade deadline option for the Knicks, who have now dropped three straight games, after a season-high eight-game winning streak.
“One thing worth noting on the trade front is that the Knicks at least talked internally about the idea of acquiring Tobias Harris via train before their winning streak started. …Tom Thibodeau spoke highly of him before the game, so it’s just one name to keep an eye on.”
Ian Begley via SNY
Harris had underwhelmed since signing a max contract before the 2019-20 season. But it was just his fault as he couldn’t flourish playing as the third option and sometimes fourth when Tyrese Maxey was healthy.
The 30-year-old Harris, who is averaging 17.0 points and 6.3 rebounds this season, is owed $77 million until next season.
It’s also worth noting that Begley also reported that the Knicks touched base with the Toronto Raptors for OG Anunoby at around the same time they were mulling over Harris.
It’s obvious the 18-16 Knicks are looking to upgrade their roster, which is sitting at the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference, but their lead has dwindled to just half a game over rival Atlanta Hawks (17-16).
The Sixers could dump Harris’ salary to the Knicks by taking on Derrick Rose, Evan Fournier, and Cam Reddish if they plan to open up more cap space for Harden, who was reportedly considering a return to Houston if things go south in Philadelphia.
But the big question for the Knicks: can Harris move the needle?
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