The Knicks are getting ready to deal center Jericho Sims before Thursday’s trade deadline, ESPN’s Tim Bontemps reports. Several teams are interested in the 26-year-old big man, who’s making just $2 million this year.
The Lakers, Clippers, and Bucks are all eyeing Sims, according to HoopsHype. It’s perfect timing for the Lakers, who just shook things up by sending Anthony Davis to Dallas for Luka Doncic.
The Knicks aren’t asking for much – they’re hoping to get a second-round pick for Sims, the New York Post reported last month.
It’s been a quiet season for Sims in New York. He’s only playing about 11 minutes per game, putting up less than 2 points and grabbing around 3 rebounds. That’s what happens when you’re stuck behind Karl-Anthony Towns and Precious Achiuwa in the rotation.
But here’s where it gets interesting for teams looking to grab him: Sims could be a steal for the right team. The Lakers, who are desperate for big men after the Doncic trade, might give him the playing time he hasn’t found in New York.
The timing makes sense for the Knicks too. Mitchell Robinson is getting ready to return from his foot injury – he’s already been cleared for full practice and 5-on-5 scrimmages. That would make their center position even more crowded.
Money’s also part of the equation. The Knicks are walking a tightrope with the salary cap, sitting just $535,301 below the second apron. Moving Sims would give them some breathing room.
The former Texas Longhorn, picked 58th in the 2021 draft, might not get as much court time with the Clippers or Bucks – they’re pretty set in their frontcourt. But for a team like the Lakers? He could be exactly what they need.
Teams have until 3 p.m. ET on Thursday to make their moves. For Sims, it looks like his days in New York are numbered.
