The Knicks are expected to trade Jericho Sims at some point before Thursday afternoon’s trade deadline, sources tell Tim Bontemps of ESPN (Twitter link).
A landing spot for Sims is not yet known, according to Bontemps, who says that several teams have expressed interest in the big man. A Tuesday report indicated the Lakers, Clippers, and Bucks are among Sims’ potential suitors, while a separate report stated that the Nuggets are also in the market for a backup center.
Bontemps’ report is in line with what local reporters have been saying leading up to the February 6 deadline. James L. Edwards III of The Athletic wrote last week that Sims was the best best among Knicks players to be moved in an in-season deal, while Ian Begley of SNY.tv said today that he views a Sims deal as “likely” (Twitter video link).
A report in January suggested that the Knicks were seeking a second-round pick in return for Sims.
The 26-year-old has been with the Knicks for the past four seasons but has been used sparingly by head coach Tom Thibodeau, even with Precious Achiuwa missing time this past fall and Mitchell Robinson having yet to make his season debut. Across 39 outings (five starts) this season, Sims is averaging 1.6 points and 3.3 rebounds in 10.8 minutes per game.
Sending out Sims’ $2.09MM expiring contract would allow the Knicks to take back another minimum-salary player, though it’s possible the team will just look to trade the big man without taking back anyone in return. In that scenario, New York – which has been unable to sign a 15th man all season due to its proximity to a second-apron hard cap – would have two open roster spots and would be able to fill them immediately with rest-of-season free agent signings.
Trading Sims without taking a player back would also create slightly more financial flexibility in the event of a second trade, though Begley (Twitter video link) said today that there don’t seem to be any active talks involving Robinson, who has been considered one of the Knicks’ top trade candidates.
Sims is really pretty terrible. I don’t think they’ll get much of a pick back.
He would be an amazing track and field athlete
I’m sure someone will give up a 3rd pick for him…
His expression also translates into his game.
Imo Sims needs to go somewhere and work on his offense. Here Thibs only wants D and rebounding. I watch most gns. And I can tell you. Knicks dont look for him. He could easily get 4 pts on Pick n rolls. When he runs floor they rarely look for him. Im just saying he could add more if you look for him. Thats what a PG does a team does. Sims can help a team. At worst he is a solid backup big. LA can use him.
I actually thought Lakers would go after him and Valanciunas. Easy way to fix what they need.
Clippers, Heat, Bucks …..
I thought Knicks could move him with Kolek for bench scoring. Getting a 2nd rd pick. Doesn’t help this yr. But at least you don’t lose him for nothing.
Hukporti has come a long way. Remember when I said Thibs can work his magic with him.
It’s time to just get Sims off my team he’s dead weight and taking up a roster spot. Get a second round pick and call up TJ Warren or Moses Brown. At least the Knicks know who the dead weight guy is, unlike my Yankees who still have Stroman and DJL.