The New York Knicks have made a significant trade, acquiring Bojan Bogdanovic and Alec Burks from the Detroit Pistons in exchange for guards Evan Fournier, Quentin Grimes, Malachi Flynn, Ryan Arcidiacono, and two second-round picks. This move comes at a crucial time for the Knicks, who are currently dealing with injuries to key players Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, and OG Anunoby. The addition of Bogdanovic and Burks will provide much-needed depth and experience to the team as they strive to secure a top-two seed in the Eastern Conference.
Bojan Bogdanovic, a 34-year-old power forward, has been a standout player for the Pistons this season. He has been averaging an impressive 20.2 points per game while shooting 41.5% from beyond the arc. With Randle sidelined, Bogdanovic will step in as the team’s starting power forward, bringing his versatility as a scorer and shooter to the forefront. His presence on the court will alleviate some of the pressure on All-Star Jalen Brunson and provide the Knicks with additional firepower off the bench once their injured players return.
One notable aspect of Bogdanovic’s acquisition is his partially guaranteed deal for next season. This gives the Knicks flexibility in deciding whether to keep him on the roster or explore other options depending on their salary situation. It is a strategic move that allows the team to evaluate Bogdanovic’s performance and contribution before making a long-term commitment.
Alec Burks is no stranger to the Knicks, having spent the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons with the team before signing with the Pistons. During his previous stint with New York, Burks showcased his scoring ability, averaging 12.7 points in his first season and 11.7 points in his second. In his 43 games for Detroit this season, Burks has continued to be a reliable scorer, averaging 12.6 points per game while shooting an impressive 40.1% from beyond the arc on 5.7 attempts per game. His familiarity with the Knicks’ system and his ability to contribute immediately will be valuable assets as the team navigates through their injury woes.
Quentin Grimes, the 25th overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft, will now join the Pistons. Grimes spent most of last season as a starter for the Knicks before being moved into a bench role earlier this season. However, his shooting prowess will be a welcome addition to the Pistons, who are in need of players who can stretch the floor. Grimes boasts a career 37.9% 3-point shooting percentage on five attempts per game, making him a reliable threat from beyond the arc.
Evan Fournier’s time with the Knicks has been limited, with the 31-year-old guard falling out of Coach Tom Thibodeau’s rotation last season. He has a team option for next season, and if he becomes available on the buyout market, contending teams may find him to be an intriguing option. Fournier’s experience and scoring ability could make him a valuable asset for teams looking to bolster their roster for a playoff run.
Malachi Flynn, who arrived in New York just last month in the Anunoby trade with Toronto, will now have an opportunity to make an impact with the Pistons. Ryan Arcidiacono, who played in 20 games this season for the Knicks off the bench, will also join Detroit. While Arcidiacono did not score a point during his time in New York, he brings depth and experience to the Pistons’ roster.
Overall, the Knicks’ acquisition of Bojan Bogdanovic and Alec Burks is a significant move that addresses their immediate needs for depth and experience. With injuries plaguing key players, the addition of Bogdanovic as a starting power forward and Burks as a reliable scorer will undoubtedly strengthen the team’s chances of securing a top-two seed in the Eastern Conference. As the injured players begin to return, the Knicks will have a formidable rotation that can compete at a high level. Only time will tell how this trade will impact the team’s playoff aspirations, but for now, the Knicks have made a bold move to bolster their roster and increase their chances of success.
