Malcolm Brogdon. Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

ESPN insider wants to see Malcolm Brogdon join the Knicks

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 1/25/24

Bobby Marks is a former assistant general manager for the Brooklyn Nets. He is now a front-office insider for ESPN. In a recent article, he noted how he would like to see Malcolm Brogdon traded to the New York Knicks before the Feb. 8 trade deadline.

"Leading up to the deadline, Trail Blazers general manager Joe Cronin must weigh how 31-year-old Brogdon and 29-year-old Grant impact the locker room and the on-court product, and whether it's worth keeping them or trading them for more draft assets, " Marks wrote. "...Trade we would like to see: Brogdon to New York for Evan Fournier and a 2024 first-round pick (top-14 protected)."

Brogdon is the reigning Sixth Man of the Year. He enjoyed a stellar season with the Boston Celtics. During the summer, he was sent to the Portland Trail Blazers as part of the Jrue Holiday trade. Since then, Brogdon has been simmering away in the Western Conference.

In 35 games, Brogdon is averaging 15.7 points, 3.5 rebounds and 5.3 assists, shooting 43.7% from the field and 42.2% from three-point range. The Knicks need a backup ball-handler. They traded Immanuel Quickley to the Toronto Raptors as part of the deal for OG Anunoby. Brogdon could fill that void and potentially be an upgrade in terms of immediate production and impact.

However, the Knicks may be weary of acquiring Brogdon. He has dealt with numerous injury issues throughout his career. There are no guarantees he could remain healthy while sustaining Tom Thibodeau's robust playing style.

Nevertheless, if all it would take to land Brogdon is Evan Fournier (who has played in three games this season) and a lottery-protected draft pick, his health may be a risk worth taking. As we saw last season, when available, Brogdon is an elite guard. He can score across all three levels. He can defend on the perimeter or as a helper. He can create for himself off the dribble. He's a reliable playmaker for others.

The Knicks need a guard. Brogdon can help fortify their rotation and be a valuable asset in the playoffs. If the Trail Blazers are willing to part with Brogdon, the Knicks should certainly be picking up the phone.

This trade makes perfect sense for the Knicks and gives Portland another draft asset to dangle in other trade talks. Marks could be on to something with this trade proposal.

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