After a successful 14-3 record after adding OG Anunoby, the New York Knicks are rumored to be eyeing F Kelly Olynyk and G Jordan Clarkson via Michael Scotto from Hoops Hype. Scotto also has reported various other teams with interest in Olynyk as he prepares to be a part of the upcoming free agency class leading to what could be, a bidding war.
The Knicks could use some frontcourt help with center Mitchell Robinson likely out until the end of the season and All-Star forward Julius Randle sustaining a right shoulder injury on Saturday that is expected to keep him out for multiple weeks. While Olynyk is no Julius Randle, he will be able to fill some of the most glaring holes left in the absence of the 2020-21 Most Improved Player.
The Knicks bench took a huge hit with the departure of Immanuel Quickley in the OG Anunoby trade. They lost a lot of scoring creation and have been rumored to be looking to fill that role. Jordan Clarkson seems to be their ideal candidate to replace the former runner-up for the 6 Man of the Year award, according to Hoops Hype. Clarkson has been averaging 17.7 points and 4.8 assists in 39 games with 19 starts in his 4th season as part of the Utah Jazz.
"“Whatever team can get Clarkson will be a game changer, I think he’s the best of the volume scorers available on the trade market.”"NBA Scout via Hoops Hype
Having established the Knicks' need for these two vets, what could Danny Ainge and the Utah Jazz look to gain? The Knicks have multiple picks they are willing to part with, and multiple interesting young players in Quentin Grimes and Miles McBride who have yet to break out due to being too low in the New York Knicks rotation.