Knicks willing to make move now instead of waiting for free agency…
The New York Knicks have reportedly put together a trade package in a last-ditch attempt to sign point guard Goran Dragic from the Phoenix Suns.
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According to Chris Broussard of ESPN, the Knicks will include both Tim Hardaway Jr and Jose Calderon in the deal, although there is no official confirmation from either party that an offer has been submitted.
Knicks package for Dragic includes Tim Hardaway Jr. and Jose Calderon
— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) February 19, 2015
Dragic has made it clear that he wishes to leave the Suns or he will opt against re-signing in the summer and leave as a free agent as his relationship with the front office has broken down completely.
Suns owner Robert Sarver is reportedly refusing to accommodate his ideal move, with the Slovenian point guard insisting that he wants to join either the Knicks, the Miami Heat or the Los Angeles Lakers.
It appears as though the Knicks will be the first to test that resolve if this report is to be believed, and the offer is an enticing one given that Calderon will act as a solid back-up guard option off the bench while Hardaway Jr is considered a talented prospect.
As well as acquiring Dragic, the move would shed the salaries of the Knicks duo which would also help team president Phil Jackson continue to move under the tax line.
New York are expected to make significant moves in free agency as they continue to rebuild their roster, but the work could start now.
Meanwhile, it has also been suggested that Dragic, or someone in his camp, has been trying to ward off interest from other franchises hoping to negotiate with the Suns by insisting that money is not a motivation and his fit with his next team is of paramount importance as he wants to help a big franchise get back on its feet.
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