NBA trade update: New York Knicks explore fresh frontcourt fix as Guerschon Yabusele trade talks heat up

Guerschon Yabusele's transfer to the New York Knicks prior to the trade deadline seems allegedly inevitable. They will probably move their greatest offseason acquisition for an instant rotation upgrade because he has reportedly underperformed. In order to avoid paying the luxury tax, Phoenix would also transfer Nigel Hayes-Davis' minimum wage to a facilitating team as part of the agreement.

The Knicks' readiness to let go of Yabusele has started to spark more league rumors as the February 5 trade deadline draws near. Yabusele signed a two-year, $11.7 million contract with the Knicks in the offseason after making an NBA comeback with the Philadelphia 76ers the previous season.

New York Knicks and Phoenix Suns weigh center swap as frontcourt depth becomes a concern

The Knicks and Suns are considering trading Guerschon Yabusele for Nick Richards. Additionally, Phoenix is also shifting Nigel Hayes-Davis' salary to avoid the luxury tax. Hence all three players battle for regular playing time this season.

NBA writer Evan Sidery claims that Phoenix Suns center Nick Richards is one player they have talked about in a possible Yabusele trade. He wrote:

“The Knicks and Suns have discussed a swap of Guerschon Yabusele for Nick Richards. Phoenix would also send out Nigel Hayes-Davis’ veteran minimum salary to a facilitating team in order to duck the luxury tax altogether.”




However, in New York, things haven't gone as expected. Despite averaging just 2.8 points and 2.1 rebounds in 9.2 minutes over 38 games, Yabusele has struggled to earn a place in Mike Brown's rotation.

On the other hand, Richards may be a helpful insurance piece for Mitchell Robinson, and New York has been interested in him for a while. He might be a good third-strong option, and New York has been cautious about Robinson's health this season.

Since their frontcourt has been their weakest area of the roster this season, the Knicks will probably look to make moves in that area. As a depth player, Richards might give them the size and athleticism they need off the bench.

Guerschon Yabusele’s struggles force Knicks to rethink frontcourt plans

The signing of Yabusele was meant to be the answer to their frontcourt issues, but it hasn't worked out. The veteran, who signed a two-year contract during the summer, is now entirely out of the rotation due to his struggles on both ends, which has destroyed any potential trade value.

In 24 games, the 31-year-old has averaged 1.4 points and 1.3 rebounds in 7.6 minutes. He agreed to a one-year, fully guaranteed contract worth about $2.05 million with the Suns. Meanwhile, the Knicks have shown interest in a number of players thus far, and they may make significant roster changes before the trade deadline on February 5.

Hayes-Davis, the EuroLeague Final Four MVP who joined from Fenerbahce last summer, has also had trouble getting regular playing time.



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