NBA Trade Rumors: Knicks Management Shakeup Alters Marcus Morris Fortunes
KEY POINTS
- Marcus Morris trade is back on
- Knicks new management making Morris available
- Clippers, Sixers among teams who could revisit Morris trade
NBA teams that previously expressed interest in Marcus Morris may want to discuss trade with the New York Knicks again. With a sudden shakeup in management, there is the growing belief that the Gotham squad is now open to dealing the 6-foot-9 basketball player.
Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported that with the departure of Steve Mills, Marcus Morris trade talks are back on. At least two teams were previously reportedly interested in the 14th overall pick of the 2011 NBA Draft -- the Los Angeles Clippers and the Philadelphia 76ers.
Mills vacated his position and will reportedly be given a different responsibility. The search for a new president is on with general manager Scott Perry taking over basketball operations for now, according to the team's official statement.
With regard to the fate of Morris, a better picture should be known soon. The NBA trade deadline is practically here basketball fans closely monitoring personnel movement. So far, the only notable names that were moved include Clint Capella and Robert Covington. They were part of a multiplayer trade between four teams -- the Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Atlanta Hawks and the Denver Nuggets.
The thing to consider about Morris is his current contract and what lies ahead. He carries a one-year $15 million deal this season and is likely to become a free agent this summer. Before the Knicks management change happened, it appeared the 30-year-old was ready to stay in New York moving forward. He was branded as the most likely foundation of the rebuilding franchise although his commitment remains questionable.
Prior to the start of the 2019-20 NBA season, Morris was embroiled in a bit of controversy. After initially agreeing to a two-year deal worth $20 million with the San Antonio Spurs, the 2011 Big 12 Player of the Year had a change of heart. Instead, he agreed to a one-year deal worth $15 million with the Knicks. The whole thing did not sit well with head coach Gregg Popovich, a scenario that could happen again.
The Clippers do need a big man to help out in the boards and Morris fits that perfectly. He can also score when needed, something that heads coach Doc Rivers will enjoy.
The Lakers and Sixers could also get a boost if they get Morris but his position is up in the air. Both teams seem to have their frontline well-covered, meaning the Pennsylvania native may not be a useful addition.
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