NBA Rumors: Knicks Could Catch A Break By Buying Out Ellington

The New York Knicks are trying to deal with a cramped guard rotation but buying out some players could ease the burden. One player who is reportedly seeking a buyout is Wayne Ellington. The Knicks could oblige to that request, allowing the NBA veteran to join other teams who are bound for the playoffs.

According to the New York Post, Ellington and his agent are in discussions to possibly request a buyout with the Knicks. But as for how adamant the 32-year-old guard is about parting with the Gotham-based squad, he said he is just listening to what his agent is advising him to do.

“I’m just listening to my agent at this point. I come in here, come into work every single day like it’s a normal day. Listen and get advice and take it from there,” said Ellington.

The Knicks could get a shot in the arm by unloading Ellington. Buying the 6-foot-4 guard out could free up the bottleneck in the guard rotation. It would also give them some financial reprieve. Ellington is due $8 million this season but only $1 million of that is guaranteed, NBC Sports reported.

This NBA season, Ellington has suited up in just 26 games for the Knicks. He averaged 4.8 points, 1.7 rebounds an assist. While those numbers are far from impressive, a change in scenery could see him producing better numbers. He had his best years as a Miami Heat during the 2017-18 season, norming 11.2 points and 2.8 rebounds in 26.5 minutes of action per Basketball-Reference.com.

Though his numbers may not be that eye-popping, some NBA playoff-bound teams could use him as a backup guard. There are several teams in need of backcourt help, someone who could come off the bench for spot points.

As far as playing time, Ellington could see diminished minutes for any team that may take him in. That means probably equal or even lesser than the 14.7 minutes he was given in New York. Either way, it may all depend on the chances the 6-foot-4 shooting guard would get. If ever he is picked up, it may not extend beyond the 2019-20 NBA wars. This means he will be team hunting again in the summer, hopefully with a team that can put him to good use.