NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 09: Immanuel Quickley #5 of the New York Knicks goes to the basket as MarJon Beauchamp #0 of the Milwaukee Bucks defends during the first half at Madison Square Garden on January 09, 2023 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
Latest trade report gives Knicks fans another reason to be thankful for Immanuel Quickley
New York Knicks fans were given a scare a few weeks ago when it was reported that the New York Knicks were shopping Immanuel Quickley. The 23-year-old is in his third season with the Knicks and similar to other young players on the roster, was put on the back burner. However, a series of injuries paved the way for Quickley to have an increased role as a starter, and he’s excelled.
Now that the trade deadline is weeks away, the Quickley chatter has quieted down. New York was reportedly looking to get a first-round pick in exchange for IQ, but now, hopefully none of that no longer matters.
In the Knicks’ last 10 games, Quickley averaged 18.8 points, 4.6 assists, and 4.3 rebounds in 37.3 minutes while shooting 46.3% from the field and 35.1% from three. On the season as a whole, he’s averaging 27.3 minutes, which is nearly four minutes more than what he averaged in 2021-22. Fans have long been arguing that if given the opportunity, IQ would take advantage of his time on the court, and that’s what he’s done.
Quickley’s been playing so well that HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto wrote that the guard’s improved play “may make it tough for a trade to come to fruition.” As fans know, anything can happen ahead of the deadline, but it appears as if IQ is going to stay in New York.
Are Knicks still considering trading Immanuel Quickley amid his hot streak?
Michael Scotto reported that the Bucks, Mavericks, and Wizards (among other teams) have expressed interest in Immanuel Quickley. Ironically enough, Quickley dropped 23 points (9-of-14) on the Bucks on Monday night in the Knicks’ 111-107 loss.
New York is after a star and additional draft capital would help bring a big-name player to the Knicks, but in case it hasn’t already been made clear, it shouldn’t happen at the expense of Quickley. Cam Reddish doesn’t hold the same value as Quickley, especially because he’s been pushed out of the rotation, but the Knicks are reportedly looking to get two first-round picks in exchange for him.
Quickley has been a fan favorite in New York since he was drafted in 2020, so similar to Obi Toppin, it would be tough for fans to see IQ be dealt. Thanks to his recent play, though, Quickley should be safe in trade talks unless a star becomes available that the front office can’t pass up on. Even then, the Knicks should carefully consider their options.
