With J.R. Smith possibly leaving the Big Apple this summer, New York has expressed interest in acquiring Monta Ellis, according to a report from CBSSports.com. Ellis opted out of a deal with Milwaukee that would’ve paid him $11 million next season, so the hookup is probably a long shot. The Knicks have only the $3.2 million taxpayer mid-level exception available. But we’ve seen crazier things happen, and after years of losing, playing for a contender could be appealing to Ellis.
Contenders Chicago, San Antonio and Denver, as well as the rebuilding Suns and Kings, have all expressed interest in Ellis, the 27-year-old who averaged 19.2 points and 6.0 assists with the Bucks last year.
After trading for Andrea Bargnani over the weekend in a deal that’ll see Steve Novak, Marcus Camby, a 2016 first-round pick and two future second-round picks go to Toronto, it’s obvious what the strategy is in New York. They’re trying to surrounded ‘Melo with more shooters and scorers, even if that means adding players that play little to no defense.
Anthony was at his best last year as a power forward. Will he play long stretches with Bargnani at the five? Then, you’re possibly adding the 6-3 Ellis, never known as anything other than a gambler on defense? That’s a very odd combination.
Is this a good move?
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