NBA Rumors: Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks Had Serious D'Angelo Russell Trade Talks

The New York Knicks were sellers at the 2020 NBA trade deadline, sending Marcus Morris to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Moe Harless’ expiring contract, a first-round draft pick and a second-rounder. Just a few days prior, the organization wanted to keep Morris and potentially give away assets to improve the roster in the short term.

There were rumors that the Knicks had trade discussions with the Golden State Warriors regarding D’Angelo Russell. SNY.tv’s Ian Begley reports that the Knicks felt they made “significant progress” toward a deal for the point guard earlier in the week.

Trade talks stalled when Knicks president Steve Mills was relieved of his duties. The Warriors ended up sending Russell to the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, a 2021 first-round draft pick and a second-rounder.

According to Begley, New York’s offer to Golden State included Bobby Portis, Allonzo Trier and Frank Ntilikina. At least one first-rounder would’ve had to be in the deal, as well.

New York has seven first-round picks over the next four years. A trade for Russell would’ve left the Knicks with five first-rounders, at best, during that time.

The Knicks were thought to be a potential suitor for Russell last summer. A restricted free agent at the time, Russell agreed to a sign-and-trade to Golden State in the deal that put Kevin Durant in a Brooklyn Nets’ uniform.

Russell signed a four-year, $117 million contract in July. He made the 2019 All-Star team with the Nets as an injury replacement.

Russell is posting career highs with 23.2 points per game and 37.4% three-point shooting. He would not have turned the Knicks into a playoff contender.

New York has a 16-36 record as the No.13 seed in the East. Five teams and 5.5 games stand between the Knicks and the No.8 seed.

The Knicks also discussed trading Morris to the Los Angeles Lakers. New York wanted Kyle Kuzma in a potential deal.