There was some interesting news today in Knicksland. The Knicks said goodbye (at least as a player, I hope he comes onboard as a coach) to Taj Gibson. This was interesting because it opens up the Knicks bringing in more players than they send out. This trade sees them send out Fournier (finally) and get Brogdon and Drummond to provide depth for a deeper playoff run. I still think it's unlikely that the huge star trade is coming during this season as many of the reported targets aren't going to be available. For example, Donovan Mitchell doesn't seem to be going anywhere (this season at least), Minnesota isn't going to trade KAT while having such a great season and other players like Embiid aren't going anywhere. I would love for a player like Devin Booker to come to the Knicks but it's very unlikely. There's also a version of this trade with Dejounte Murray but I think with his cost, it's unlikely to happen. Murray is a great player but the Hawks will probably need Fournier AND Grimes plus 3 unprotected FRPs which I just don't see happening for a player who might not bring them to contender status. This trade costs far less and gives the Knicks more flexibility going forward.

Knicks: The Knicks get Brogdon, the reigning Sixth Man of the Year to come in and help run the second unit. His contract goes for 2 years but it will be expiring next season and could be used in the eventual trade for the star that takes them to contention level. Brogdon is a steady hand who can score and pass well and is a decent defender. I'm hopeful that he won't be needed, that Deuce can be trusted as the backup PG but he's a more proven option. The Knicks also bring in Drummond, who's more proven backup center as well. He is a great rebounder and the cost isn't that high. He's also a more proven option than Achiuwa or Sims and gives the second unit more options. I'm still of the opinion that the Knicks should trade Mitch in the offseason and prioritize Hartenstein as the starting center and this gives them a chance to see how it could work.

Blazers: The Blazers do this because Fournier isn't a long term contract and they get another FRP, it's as simple as that. Brogdon isn't a part of their future and they've been looking to ship him out the whole time.

Bulls: The Bulls aren't going to contend this year and probably won't make the playoffs. Drummond's contract is expiring and they should be doing all they can to collect as many assets as possible. It's not a huge return but it's something and they'll hope they can trade other players (LaVine, DeRozan, Vucevic) to start the rebuilding process.