The New York Knicks are looking for a new home for center Jericho Sims as the February 6 NBA trade deadline approaches, according to sources from the New York Post's Stefan Bondy. The high-flyer has a few options if that's the case.
The Knicks would like to obtain a second-round draft pick for the 26-year-old.
Knicks Shift Focus, Leaving Sims Out of Rotation
Simms, who is one of the longest-tenured players in the Knicks, recently fell out of head coach Tom Thibodeau's rotation. Ahead of the game with the Detroit Pistons on Monday, he was inactive, which is clearly an indication that he has seen a decline in his role.
Despite being a 2021 second-round draft pick with notable moments, Sims has not made much of an impact this season. He is currently averaging 1.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 11.6 minutes per game.
While he started three games earlier this season to replace injured players like Karl-Anthony Towns, Sims' performances have been inconsistent.
Contract and Salary Cap Considerations
Sims is in the final year of his three-year, $5.7 million contract, with $2.1 million remaining. This expiring deal makes him an affordable acquisition for teams needing depth in the frontcourt. However, his limited playing time and modest stats may hinder his trade value.
The Knicks, playing above the first apron of the NBA's salary cap, face complex financial rules. They are prohibited from receiving more salary than they are allowed to send out, which would further complicate any trade that may be done with Sims.
Upcoming Issues of Roster Depth
With Mitchell Robinson, who is coming back from offseason ankle surgery and is expected to return, Sims' role will likely be reduced even further, the Bleacher Report concludes.
The Knicks want to push for playoff contention, and there is little room for Sims in the rotation with Robinson's presence since the latter is a more dominant defensive center.
Recent game logs only reinforce the struggle for Sims. On January 6, starting against the Orlando Magic, Sims played 29 minutes, collecting four points and 10 rebounds as his team fell. He had played only four minutes against the Toronto Raptors and wasn't on the court in either of the final two games before the All-Star break.
Active Potential Suitors for Jericho Sims
One team that should show great interest in Jericho Sims is the Los Angeles Lakers, who have been looking for a reliable backup center to complement superstars Anthony Davis and LeBron James.
NBA insider Shams Charania has previously mentioned that the Lakers need to strengthen their frontcourt depth, which has been a significant weakness since the start of the season. Sims' expiring contract and low financial commitment may make him an attractive, low-risk option for the Lakers or other playoff-contending teams.
Although his current role with the Knicks is not well-defined, Sims may be offered a new opportunity with a team that needs his depth and rebounding prowess.
The Knicks' next few weeks will be critical as they evaluate their roster and prepare to make moves that align with their long-term goals.
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