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New York Knicks Trading Carmelo Anthony To Clippers Could Be A Blessing

By Robbie Stratakos

Jan 2, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) walks onto the court prior to taking on the Orlando Magic at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) walks onto the court prior to taking on the Orlando Magic at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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January 16, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Austin Rivers (25) moves the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
January 16, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers guard Austin Rivers (25) moves the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Why The Knicks Do The Deal

In this deal, the Knicks get Rivers, Crawford, and a future first round pick. While this deal may not seem all too sexy at first glance, such a move could prove to be a blessing for the Knicks.

Austin Rivers Gives The Knicks Options

First off, if the Knicks could land Rivers, he could step right in and be their starting point guard, assuming the Knicks can find a taker for Derrick Rose. Rivers could embrace the opportunity to be a starter.

Averaging nearly 12 points a game, Rivers could get the opportunity to be the second scoring option behind Kristaps Porzingis; a role which he hasn’t had the chance to play in. Rivers is also a good defender, which is an attribute this Knicks team should be looking to build its roster around going forward. Another thing to consider is Rivers’ contract.

While roughly $12 million a year over the next two and half years may seem like an overpay, the increasing cap and an increased role could  make that deal look like a steal; however, if all goes wrong in New York, the Knicks could easily find a taker for his services and make a run at a point guard via free agency (Jrue Holiday?). Jamal Crawford is also on a solid deal.

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