The New York Knicks are reportedly interested in a trade for Jeff Teague with the Atlanta Hawks and could explore a deal heading into the trade deadline. Brandon Jennings has also been mentioned as a potential trade target for the Knicks as they try to make a playoff run this season.
According to Yahoo Sports, the Hawks have been talking to teams about Teague and the Knicks are one team that has been in contact with Atlanta about the point guard. Ian Begley at ESPN confirmed the rumors and writes that the "Knicks are one of several teams" that have spoken with the Hawks. Begley adds that the team might need to "get creative" to get Teague, as the Knicks do not have many assets to trade and also will need to make the money work in any exchange.
Begley writes that since Teague will be making $8 million for next season, adding him in a trade would impact "cap space for this summer" heading into free agency. The Knicks have reportedly been interested in upgrading the backcourt all season and now they could look at making a deal for Teague. The Knicks also have been mentioned in connection with Brandon Jennings, who could be a trade target for the Pistons with Reggie Jackson planted as the starting point guard.
ESPN reports that the Hawks are willing to trade Jeff Teague or Dennis Schroder at the deadline, as the team has been looking to shake things up in the rotation. If Teague is traded it likely means that Atlanta is ready to give Schroder the chance to be the starting point guard. Teague is averaging 14 points and 5.6 assists per game this season and he has been underperforming a bit for the Hawks and that has sparked the trade interest for the team.
The Knicks also could be interested in a move for Brandon Jennings, as the New York Daily News reported earlier in the season that the Knicks were taking a look at Jennings. Jose Calderon has been solid for the Knicks, but at his age and with his injury history, the team may want to get younger at the position. Jerian Grant likely will remain as a backup option for now and Calderon could be moved if the team tries to deal for Jennings or Teague.
According to ESPN, the Utah Jazz, New York Knicks and Milwaukee Bucks are potential options for a deal with Teague. Zach Lowe at ESPN writes that the Jazz could look at making a move with the Hawks, as players like Alec Burks and Trey Burke could be packaged in a deal for Teague that could be appealing to both sides.
