NBA trade rumors are heating up as the Feb. 9 deadline approaches. As usual, the New York Knicks find themselves involved in the discussion to make a move ahead of the NBA trade deadline as they look to improve their positioning in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Utah Jazz shooting guard Malik Beasley has long been on the Knicks’ radar, even dating back to before the career 38% 3PT shooter signed an extension with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2020 and has remained interested ever since.
The Jazz, who are said to be considering becoming trade deadline sellers, could be open to parting with Beasley, who comes off the bench but is averaging 13.6 points per game in 27 minutes per contest.
Yet, Utah doesn’t appear committed to buying or selling at this point, with them also being linked to two-way wings such as Dallas’ Dorian Finney-Smith, or Charlotte’s Jalen McDaniels.
Beasley is under contract for $15.5 million this season and has a team option for $16.5 million in 2023-24. It’s a reasonable rate for what he offers as a high-volume three-point shooter providing a spark off the bench. Plus, Beasley is still just 26 years old.
The Jazz are said to be seeking a first-round pick (or something equivalent) in a Beasley trade. But the Knicks, who rank 23rd in the NBA in three-point percentage, could use a boost from the perimeter, and Beasley (affectionately known as Threesley) certainly fits the mold.
With less than two weeks to go until the deadline, we’ll find out soon enough if Beasley is set to change teams for the fourth time in his seven-year career.