For the past few weeks now rumors have hinted the New York Knicks were ‘desperate’ to obtain a first round draft pick. They weren’t able to do that after a trade with the Dallas Mavericks, though, they did acquire the No. 34 pick along with Samuel Dalembert and Shane Larkin.
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The New York Knicks are said to be open for deals regarding Dalembert, but he’s not exactly what you’d call a hot trade chip (though they do not plan to waive him). However, two pieces that may be flipped are the aforementioned Larkin and the 34th selection, this according to the New York Post.
"Knicks president Phil Jackson still has the assets to move up into the first round in Thursday’s draft, and one of those pieces on the move could be newly acquired point guard Shane Larkin.By rules, the New York Knicks can peddle Larkin, though they obtained him Wednesday night in a blockbuster trade with the Mavericks that also netted the Knicks the 34th and 52nd picks in the draft."
It’s been said the Knicks want to move up into the mid-to-high 20’s and it’s very possible such a package could net them a pick in that range considering Larkin is only signed through next season with team options for the following years. That would allow a team the opportunity to essentially avoid having to pay a full scale, guaranteed rookie contract and in addition get them a second round pick, a selection that does not come with a guaranteed contract attached.