But apparently the younger Smith is still a part of the Knicks plans.

March 24, 2012; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Louisville Cardinals guard Chris Smith (5) during the second half in the finals of the west region of the 2012 NCAA men

A source tells Keith Schlosser of Knicks Journal that the Knicks still plan to bring Smith aboard when his knee injury completely heals.

The original timetable for Smith was said to be three to six months and since the injury occurred in training camp, he could be almost ready to return.

Schlosser also notes that The Knicks have allowed Smith to hang around the team this season and rehab his knee at the team facilities, and he’s been a fixture at the team’s home games, sometimes making the trip to road games as well.

Smith likely won’t be added to the NBA roster as the Knicks have 15 contracts. They could elect not to bring Kenyon Martin back after his 10-day contract expires, but the thoughts are that Martin will be around for the rest of the season.

The likely option would be having Smith sign with the Knicks’ D-League affiliate the Erie Bayhawks and hopefully signing him next season, which wouldn’t be a given if another team wanted to sign him instead.

The 25-year old guard out of Louisville went undrafted in June and signed with the Knicks shortly after.

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Martin has been unable to find a home this season, either asking for too much money during the offseason, or struggling to find any teams willing to bring him aboard mid-year. His last stint in the NBA was with the Los Angeles Clippers last year where he signed on halfway through the season again, and went on to average 5.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1 steal, and 1 block in 22 minutes per game.

Apr. 25, 2012; New York, NY, USA; Los Angeles Clippers power forward Kenyon Martin (2) gestures on the court during the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Knicks won 99-93. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

The Clippers were generally better with Martin off the court, however when he was on the court, they were still better than their opponents in field goal percentage, offensive efficiency, defensive rebounding, steals, and blocks. That Martin was still able to help the Clippers perform better than their opponents, despite missing training camp and half the season, says something about his potential on-court worth.

Many Knicks fans were upset about giving up Ronnie Brewer – a player whose worth may have been important on defense come playoff time – and signing on an even older, injury-prone backup power forward. However, Martin could prove to be more valuable than fans think, especially if he’s in shape.

He’s close and has played with Carmelo Anthony and J.R. Smith before, meaning the learning curve will be slightly easier. Likewise, at the very least, the Knicks will get a backup forward who is taking the spot of two players who aren’t even playing. Unless Martin actually hurts the team in drastic ways while he plays, he is currently an upgrade over Marcus Camby and Rasheed Wallace.

Finally, at the very worst, the Knicks only have to deal with him for ten days before his contract is voided and they can cut hm. If Martin can’t bring anything to the team, it will only be for a very short period, and then the Knicks can go and look at other options.

That includes the New York Knicks, who in order to compete for a championship, needed to make an impact addition.

Since there weren’t many big names out there on the market, I’m pointing to J.J. Redick, who the Orlando Magic eventually dealt to the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for Doron Lamb, Tobias Harris and Beno Udrih and a 2012 second-round pick.

The Knicks could have done much better than offer up three mediocre talents that the Magic eventually settled for.

Feb 2, 2013; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Orlando Magic guard J.J. Redick (7) during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at the BMO Harris Bradley Center. The Bucks won 107-98. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Of course that would have cost them Iman Shumpert, which would have been tough, but in this case I feel it would have helped the Knicks a great deal to have gone after Redick more aggressively.

Here’s a look at five reasons why the Knicks needed to make a move for Redick or someone else at the deadline.

1. Their window is short: Looking at the Knicks roster as it is constructed right now, their window to compete for a championship is about a two year one, including this season. It makes a lot of sense to go for it now and be in win-now mode than to roll the dice with what the Knicks currently have. I’m not a big fan of his, but Redick would have been an upgrade at the 2 at both ends of the floor. He’s a better player than Shumpert right now and if the goal is winning than a move should have been made.

Also consider the fact that Shumpert is the only player on the roster under the age of 27. Is he really a guy to build around in the future? That’s debatable. As much as I like Shump, he’s a guy coming off a knee injury, doesn’t have a polished offense game and his defense is regressing. Unfortunately Redick does a lot more for this team right now than Shump does.

2. It’s not working: After beginning the season 19-6, the Knicks are only 13-13 over the span of their past 26 games. That’s a large sample size. There is nothing to suggest that this team is capable of competing for a championship right now. However by adding another talented player they might be able to turn things around. Are the Knicks the mediocre team that we have seen the past 26 games during the past 26 or the dominant team we saw the past 25? That seemed like a long time ago and a small shakeup could have helped ignite things.

3. Shooting: Contrary to belief, the Knicks have not been good offensive team as of late. Redick’s 15.1 points, 4.4 assists and 45 percent field goal percentage would have helped a ton. Just look at the Knicks current starters. Shump is shooting an atrocious 32.1 percent from the floor and only 36.4 percent from behind the arc. Jason Kidd, after a nice start, is down to an abysmal 38.9 percent from the floor. Even worse, Kidd is shooting 19.4 percent from the floor in February and is hitting only 16 percent of his three-point attempts, but he is still taking four per game.

The Knicks are getting nothing from their shooting guard and small forward spots, which puts all of the scoring pressure on Carmelo Anthony, who blindly went to management and asked them not to move Shumpert.

Feb 8, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Knicks point guard Iman Shumpert (21) drives to the basket past Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio (9) in the first half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Looking at the Knicks perceived scoring depth, Raymond Felton is only shooting 40 percent from the floor and J.R. Smith has fallen under the 40 percent clip. For a team that shoots as many three’s as the Knicks do, the current roster is not a good recipe for winning.

4. Defense: Saying the perimeter defense isn’t good would be an understatement. Shump is playing out of position and he hasn’t been resembling the dominant perimeter defender that we saw a season ago.  Redick is a solid defensive guard and at 28, has younger legs than some of the guys the Knicks run out there. There’s not a big drop off defensively from Shumpert to Redick.

5. Ability to re-sign Redick: Redick has transformed himself into a very good NBA player, one who the Knicks would have had the advantage of re-signing if they would have made the move. The Knicks are already over the tax line, so giving Redick a three-year deal while he is playing his best basketball of his career wouldn’t have been the worst idea. He wouldn’t get a max deal, but the opportunity to add a talented and gritty player for the next three years is something that makes sense, especially since the Knicks window to win is so small.

There’s the chance that we are overvaluing Shumpert right now as we don’t know exactly how good he will be in the upcoming years. The more he struggles, the more his value goes down.

There was an opportunity here to do something with Shumpert to improve the Knicks chances at winning, but unfortunately the Knicks didn’t explore the opportunity.

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Josh Smith is still an Atlanta Hawk as there were no major deals and very little movement across the board.

NBA fans who love the trade deadline such as myself walked away extremely disappointed from Thursday’s lack of action.  With that being said, I think everyone got a good look at how the new CBA will impact things going forward as teams aren’t willing to take on salary and covet draft picks like never before.

With that being said, not every team had a disappointing deadline.

Here’s a look at the winners and losers at the NBA trade deadline.

Winner: Houston Rockets

Jan 23, 2013; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings power forward Thomas Robinson (0) reacts after dunking the ball against the Phoenix Suns during the fourth quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Phoenix Suns defeated the Sacramento Kings 106-96. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

The Rockets were able to land the No. 5 pick in last year’s draft in Thomas Robinson and save $1.6 million in the long haul. Robinson is very talented and has a bright future despite not seeing much playing time in Sacramento so far. He is a steal for the Rockets and a bright part of their future. In addition, the money saved will allow them to offer to Dwight Howard or another free agent a max contract this summer.

Loser: New York Knicks

I hate to say it, but the Knicks needed to make a move to bring in someone of impact and I don’t mean Kenyon Martin. Of course that is easier said than done, but this is a different team than the one that began the season. The Knicks are only 13-13 over their past 26 games since starting the season 19-6.  J.J. Redick or another asset would have made sense for this team, who has major problems shooting the ball and defending right now. It would have been tough to part with the struggling Iman Shumpert, but the Knicks only have a two-year window to win a championship and now was the time to go for it. If Knicks management feels that this current team can matchup with teams like Miami, Indiana and Chicago in the playoffs, they are kidding themselves.

Loser: Brooklyn Nets

The reasons are similar to that of the Knicks. As they are constructed right now, the Nets are not suited to making a run through the Eastern Conference. They needed to add another big piece and were unable to do so.

Winner: Thomas Robinson

T-Rob had to have a huge smile on his face when he heard the news. He is going from the dysfunctional Kings to the Rockets where he will get more minutes on a better team, but also gets to learn from one of the best big men in NBA history in Kevin McHale. His athleticism will fit in nicely on this young Rockets team.

Loser: Atlanta Hawks

Danny Ferry held out and tried to get a better offer for Smith. That didn’t come and they are stuck with an unhappy J-Smoove for the rest of the season and will likely get nothing for him as they watch him leave as a free agent in the summer.

Loser: Los Angeles Lakers

This is more of a “what-if,” but there is nothing that would make anyone feel comfortable that Dwight Howard will re-sign in Lakerland after this season. It is likely that Howard doesn’t and similar to the Hawks, the Lakers will get nothing for him. I know Mitch Kupchak said often that he wouldn’t move Howard, but now he is sitting on pins and needles hoping that he didn’t make a mistake.

That didn’t happen as the Knicks held onto Iman Shumpert, but they did make a small move involving Ronnie Brewer.

According to Darnell Mayberry of The Oklahoman, the Oklahoma City Thunder and Knicks have agreed to a deal that will send Brewer to the Thunder in exchange for a second-round pick. The pick coming to the Knicks will be the Thunder’s own 2014 selection.

Thunder sending Knicks a future second-round pick for Brewer.

— Darnell Mayberry (@DarnellMayberry) February 21, 2013

January 5, 2013; Orlando FL, USA; New York Knicks small forward Ronnie Brewer (11) points against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. New York Knicks defeated the Orlando Magic 114-106. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

In the last 10 games, Brewer, who is mired in a horrible shooting slump, has played more than five minutes only once.

The Knicks were shopping Brewer all day to clear a roster spot as they were at the maximum amount of 15 players and didn’t want to release someone and eat their contract.

Now that they have freed up a roster spot, expect the Knicks to add a body via free agency.

They have been linked to both Lou Amundson and Kenyon Martin for some time now, but another option could be to wait until March 1 to see who gets bought out by their current teams.

That could happen to a guy like Jermaine O’Neal, who the Knicks were rumored to be trying to acquire from the Phoenix Suns as early as Wednesday.

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Some trades take some time to truly be evaluated, but when it is all said and done, one team usually makes out like bandits.

With that being said, let’s take a look at the five biggest steals on deadline day of all time.

Honorable Mention: 1989 – Indiana Pacers trade Herb Williams to the Dallas Mavericks for Detlef Schrempf

Schrempf became an instant star for the Pacers, winning a pair of Sixth Man awards in 1990 and 91. In addition, he made three All-Star teams as a member of the Pacers while Williams was nothing more than an average rotation guy in Dallas.

5. 1965 – Philadelphia 76ers trade Connie Dierking, Paul Neumann, Lee Shaffer and cash to the San Francisco Warriors for Wilt Chamberlain

This only comes in at No. 5 because technically there was no trade deadline in 1965, but the deal was made right after the All-Star break so it makes the list. Chamberlain is one of the greatest players of all-time, so this needs little explaining, but from 1965-68 Chamberlain averaged 28.0 points and 23.7 rebounds per game for the Sixers.

4. 1988 – Phoenix Suns trade Larry Nance to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Kevin Johnson, Mark West and a first-round pick (Dan Majerle)

Nance was an All-Star a couple of times with the Cavs, but Johnson and Majerle turned  around a dormant franchise and even got the Suns to the Finals in 1993. Looking back at the Suns history, there are few players more popular in team history than Johnson and Majerle.

 
3. 1994 – Chicago Bulls trade Stacey King to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Luc Longley and Dragan Tarlac

Longley wasn’t the most talented player, but he was a fantastic passing big man and almost the perfect fit for Phil Jackson’s triangle offense. By dealing a role player in King, the Bulls got their starting center on their final three championship teams.

2. 1980 – Denver Nuggets trade George McGinnnis to the Indiana Pacers for Alex English

English was one of the best pure scorers in NBA history and made eight All-Star games as a Nugget and led the team to nine playoff appearances during his time there, while McGinnis, who was a former ABA All-Star, retired two years later.

1. 1994 – Utah Jazz trade Jeff Malone and a draft pick to the Philadelphia 76ers for Jeff Hornacek, Sean Green, and a draft pick

A lot of the success of the Utah Jazz was due to the John Stockton-Karl Malone duo, but don’t underestimate how important Hornacek was. He was an outstanding piece and his three-point shooting allowed the Jazz to stretch the floor. Hornacek was the missing piece and nearly helped the Jazz win a pair of titles, but ultimately they had to run into that Michael Jordan fellow.

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What will your favorite team do?

Check back often as I will continuously update the rumors throughout the day and keep you posted as every trade goes down.

Make sure you join in on the conversation by commenting below.

11:25 pm: Marcus Morris dealt to Suns

The Rockets have traded Marcus Morris to the Suns for a second-round pick, as Morris is reunited with his twin brother, Markieff. The pair were taken out of Kansas with back-to-back lottery picks in 2011.

Jan 23, 2013; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings power forward Thomas Robinson (0) reacts after dunking the ball against the Phoenix Suns during the fourth quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Phoenix Suns defeated the Sacramento Kings 106-96. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

My Take: Decent pickup for Phoenix but long-term for Houston they save an extra $1.6 million for next season. But they have dealt their top two power forwards so rookies Terrance Jones and Robinson will get the opportunity to shine as Houston tries to hold onto the final playoff spot.

11:15 pm: Thomas Robinson dealt to Rockets

The first deadline deal actually went down Wednesday night and it was a bit of a surprise as the Sacramento Kings quickly gave up on the No. 5 pick in last summer’s draft by sending Robinson to the Rockets.

The deal looks like this:  Houston sends Patrick Patterson, Cole Aldrich and Toney Douglas to the Kings for Robinson, Francisco Garcia and Tyler Honeycutt. Sacramento also will receive $1 million in cash.

My Take: Patterson was playing well at times for Houston, but I love them getting Robinson. It may not look like it now, but T-Rob still has a chance to be a dominant player in this league. With the Rockets already having some good young talent in place, it doesn’t hurt to add a talented player like Robinson with upside. For the Kings this was nothing but a cost cutting move.

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But while it remains to be seen if the Knicks will do anything major to improve their team, it is possible that they could make a minor move- one possibly involving Ronnie Brewer.

According to ESPN’s Jared Zwerling, the Knicks are shopping Brewer around the league.

Sources tell me the #Knicks are shopping Ronnie Brewer. Not sure for who. J. O’Neal (via trade) & L. Amundson (via pickup) are also targets.

— Jared Zwerling (@JaredZwerling) February 20, 2013

It’s not entirely clear who the Knicks are targeting, but they have been linked to the likes of Luke Ridnour, Jared Dudley, J.J. Redick, Jermaine O’Neal and Josh Smith over the course of the past couple of weeks.

January 5, 2013; Orlando FL, USA; New York Knicks small forward Ronnie Brewer (11) points against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center. New York Knicks defeated the Orlando Magic 114-106. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The problem is that Brewer won’t fetch any of the above mentioned players straight up.

One scenario could be that the Knicks find a team that would take Brewer, who is only making $854k this season, in exchange for a second-round pick. That would free up a roster spot and allow the Knicks to potentially sign a free agent, as they have been linked to both Kenyon Martin and Lou Amundson in the past weeks.

Brewer averaged close to 23 minutes per game in November, but his struggles have led to him being all but removed from the Knicks’ rotation.

But because he is on a minimum salary, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a taker even though the return won’t be anything special.

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Could the New York Knicks be that team this year to make a move that no one saw coming?

So far there have been plenty of Knicks trade rumors. Most center around second-year guard Iman Shumpert, but there have also been a few that involve the Knicks pursuing big men Jermaine O’Neal and Timofey Mozgov.

Feb 11, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith (5) drives against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. The Hawks beat the Mavs 105-101. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

But could the Knicks come out the winners in the Josh Smith sweepstakes?

Count me as one that didn’t see this coming, but Hoopsworld’s Alex Kennedy has reported that the Knicks have indeed thrown themselves into the middle of the Smith talks.

The reported blockbuster would involve Smith coming to the Big Apple in exchange for Shumpert and Amar’e Stoudemire.

Kennedy notes that the Knicks have been tossing the Shumpert-Stoudemire package around the league in an attempt to land a big time player, with Smith apparently the Knicks first choice.

A move such as this would make sense for the Knicks as it makes them title contenders and Smith would likely want to re-sign with the Knicks in the offseason.

Parting with Stoudemire and Shumpert would be difficult, but adding a big time player makes the Knicks a serious threat.

However don’t get too excited.

It makes no sense for the Hawks to do a move like this.

Why would they give up their cap flexibility to take on Stoudemire’s massive contract, which has two years and $45,090,881 remaining?

Stoudemire has played very well since his return and a STAT-Al Horford frontcourt would be very good, but Hawks’ general manager Danny Ferry cleared up cap space to be  a  player in free agency. Bringing in a massive contract and an injury risk defeats that purpose.

STAT’s recent improved play could make him a trade target, but there is a ton of risk for any team to give up assets to acquire him, so it is still unlikely.

But while many expect the Knicks to be quiet during the trade deadline, they could ultimately end up making a lot of noise.

The Hawks haven’t received many good offers on Smith, so the Knicks could stand a chance.

However I wouldn’t hold my breath.

As much as I like Stoudemire, if some team were willing to part with a big time player to assume the final two years on his contract, well that would be a gift.

The last time I checked it isn’t Christmas.

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So far there has been no deals made, but that will certainly change.

Here’s a trip around The Association, examining the hottest rumors on this Wednesday afternoon.

 Josh Smith

Smith appears to be the biggest name that will be moved by Thursday’s deadline and according to TNT’s David Aldridge, The Bucks, Wizards, and Nets have been the most active in pursuing Smith.

League sources list Milwaukee, Washington, Brooklyn as most diligent on Josh Smith, but Danny Ferry keeping cards close to chest…

— David Aldridge (@daldridgetnt) February 20, 2013

In addition, ESPN’s Chris Broussard reports that Smith likes the idea of playing with Brandon Jennings and Monta Ellis, so it will be interesting to see if the Bucks can get a deal done without having to include either of their star guards.

So far, Hawks general manager Danny Ferry isn’t receiving any decent offers for J-Smoove, so it will be interesting to see how that changes between now and Thursday afternoon.

Boston Celtics

Kevin Garnett won’t waive his no-trade clause and to bring in a major piece it was felt that the Celtics would have to move Paul Pierce, which is doubtful. But Broussard notes that rival GMs insist Rajon Rondo is available.

Rival GMs insist Rondo’s available. Could they pry Josh away from ATL w/out giving up Pierce or KG? Jeff Green would be good fit in ATL

— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) February 20, 2013

New York Knicks

Iman Shumpert’s name keeps coming up in rumors, most notably for Orlando’s J.J. Redick, but Knicks’ general manager is also targeting big men, most notably Phoenix’s Jermaine O’Neal and Denver’s Timofey Mozgov.

Feb 8, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; New Orleans Hornets shooting guard Eric Gordon (10) in action against the Atlanta Hawks during the fourth quarter at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports

Evan Turner

ESPN has reported that the Philadelphia 76ers were shopping Turner, but according to  Bob Cooney of the Philadelphia Daily News, the Sixers don’t currently have anything in the works involving the former No. 2 overall pick.

Marcin Gortat

According to Paul Coro of the Arizona Republic, the Oklahoma City Thunder have been exploring a deal with the Suns that would send Marcin Gortat to Oklahoma City. In the proposed deal, the Suns would receive Kendrick Perkins, Jeremy Lamb, and a first-round pick from the Thunder.

Eric Gordon

Broussard noted earlier in the day that Gordon could be surprisingly dealt by the Hornets, although there has been nothing linking him to any particular team. However he is a player to keep an eye on in the next 24 hours.

Charlotte Bobcats

The ‘Cats have been shopping both Ben Gordon and  Gerald Henderson and according to Adrian Wojnarowski, and are looking for a first-round pick in return.

Dwight Howard

Despite Lakers’ general manager Mitch Kupchak insisting that Howard won’t be dealt,  that won’t stop teams  from trying as CBS Sports Ken Berger notes that the Atlanta Hawks will be among the teams making  a strong  push for Howard.

Brooklyn Nets

It is going to take much more than Kris Humphries and MarShon Brooks for the Nets to land Smith, but Berger notes that the Nets know that a Kris Humphries-for-Ben Gordon trade is still on the table, but are waiting to see what happens with Smith before returning to that avenue.

DeJuan Blair

Yahoo Sports’ Wojnarowski notes that the Spurs will likely deal Blair for the best final offer.

Keep checking back as I will update the latest rumors throughout the day.

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The Knicks badly need frontcourt depth, which brings me to a familiar name in Denver Nuggets’ center Timofey Mozgov.

January 18, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets center Timofey Mozgov (25) warming up before the first half against the Washington Wizards at the Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

According to Marc Berman of the New York Post, the Knicks have inquired on the availability of Mozgov.

Mozgov, 26, was part of the Carmelo Anthony deal two years ago and has done some decent things in Denver until recently falling out of George Karl’s rotation.

The seven-footer is averaging 2.9 points, 2.8 rebounds and 0.6 blocks in 10 minutes per game but have nice per 36 minutes averages of 10.5 points, 10.1 rebounds and 1.9 blocks.

It’s doubtful that a deal goes down with the Nuggets as Mozgov is drawing interest from a number of teams besides the Knicks. In addition, it appears that Denver is looking for a big haul in return; something the Knicks would be foolish to do at the moment.

But if the price goes down, they could definitely be a player for Mozgov.

According to a report, Denver has already turned down a proposal from the Minnesota Timberwolves that included Brandon Roy and a first-round pick.

Grunwald must decide whether or not to target a big man or roll the dice with Rasheed Wallace and Marcus Camby, who are both injured and remain injury risks going forward.

If a deal for Mozgov doesn’t go down, Berman also noted that he is a guy that the Knicks will target this summer when he is set to become an unrestricted free agent.

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Of course the opposite is true as well, as some trades just don’t work out.

May 6, 2012; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks point guard Baron Davis (85) reacts on the court against the Miami Heat during the first half of game four in the Eastern Conference quarterfinals of the 2012 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Knicks won 89-87. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

Every deadline there are a few head scratchers that make you wonder exactly what one of the teams was thinking.

Here’s a look at some deals that backfired in a big way.

5. 2005- New Orleans Hornets trade Baron Davis to Golden State for Speedy Claxton and Dale Davis

Davis had some injury risks at the time, but he was by far the most talented player involved in this deal and the Hornets got nothing for him. Davis went on that season to lead the Warriors to an upset over the Dallas Mavericks in the first-round of the playoffs in what turned out to be one of the more exciting playoff series’ of all time.

4. 2011- Boston Celtics trade Kendrick Perkins and Nate Robinson to Oklahoma City for Jeff Green, Nenad Krstic and a future first-round pick 

Danny Ainge has been known to roll the dice, but he crapped out on this one. It’s not that Perkins was a great player in Boston, but he was a vital part of a championship team that Ainge dismantled. Looking back, the Celtics are still trying to replace Perkins size and toughness. While Green is a nice player, this didn’t work out well for Boston. Perkins made it to the finals with the Thunder last season, while neither Green nor Krstic were playing in the league.

3. 2011- Charlotte Bobcats trade  Gerald Wallace to Portland for Joel Przybilla, Dante Cunningham, Sean Marks, and two first-round picks

One of Michael Jordan’s plenty of mistakes in Charlotte as the Bobcats got nothing for Wallace, as Przybilla, Cunningham, and Marks is a very weak return for at the time the best player in franchise history. Take this deal one step further and realize that the Blazers were able to turn Wallace into Damian Lillard and you realize how very little MJ got for a player of Wallace’s caliber.

Feb 15, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Team Shaq guard Kyrie Irving (2) of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives against Team Chuck during the first half of the rising stars challenge during the 2013 NBA All-Star weekend at the Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

2. 2011- Los Angeles Clippers trade Baron Davis and a first round pick to Cleveland for Mo Williams and Jamario Moon

The Clippers are accustomed to making bad moves, but this has to be near the top of the list. They were so anxious to get Davis’ contract off the books that they included what turned out to be the No. 1 overall pick in the deal. That pick turned out to be Kyrie Irving. The sad part is that the amnesty clause was being discussed at that time as possibly being included in the new CBA, which is exactly what the Cavs did with Davis. To their credit, the Clippers did rebound by acquiring Chris Paul, but that didn’t excuse the fact that this was an awful deal,

1. 2003- Milwaukee Bucks trade Ray Allen, Kevin Ollie, Flip Murray and a first-round pick to Seattle for Gary Payton and Desmond Mason

The Bucks dumped perhaps the greatest shooter in NBA history to avoid the luxury tax to acquire an aging Payton and a decent player in Mason. Allen is a future Hall of Famer, while Payton played exactly 28 games in a Bucks uniform before leaving as a free agent that summer.

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As Thursday’s deadline inches ever closer, Knicks’ general manager Glen Grunwald could be looking to address that need as he appears to be targeting a former All-Star center, as ESPN’s Chris Broussard reports that the team has been showing strong interest in Phoenix Suns center Jermaine O’Neal.

Sources: Knicks showing strong interest in Phx’s Jermaine O’Neal…Phx also talking w/Toronto about moving Sebastian Telfair

— Chris Broussard (@Chris_Broussard) February 20, 2013

Dec. 12, 2012; Phoenix, AZ, USA: Phoenix Suns center Jermaine O

O’Neal is a shell of what he once was, but the 34-year-old former All-Star is averaging 6.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and an impressive 1.3 blocks in only 16.6 minutes per game.

The most impressive part of O’Neal’s season is the fact that he has been healthy, which is a rarity.

O’Neal isn’t a bad thought for the Knicks.

First of all, his price tag should be very cheap, which is a bonus.

Secondly, the Knicks need size badly and O’Neal has been productive, averaging 15.0 points, 9.5 rebounds and 2.8 blocks per 36 minutes. That’s production the Knicks simply aren’t getting from any other big off the bench not named Amar’e Stoudemire. In addition, O’Neal would provide a defensive presence that Stoudemire does not.

It’s nice that Marcus Camby and Rasheed Wallace have returned to practice, but you never know how healthy either guy will be the rest of the season.

Of course that’s the drawback with a guy like O’Neal as well.

He makes sense though as he fills a need as a guy that can be productive in around only 15 minutes per game.

If the Knicks are serious about O’Neal, it would take a player to get him and not draft picks as they are currently at the maximum of 15 guaranteed contracts.

Grunwald has until Thursday afternoon to decide whether or not to make a move in order to go for it this season. If anything, he is at least exploring his options.

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That is the question.

With the NBA trade deadline only a day away, teams around the league are putting together their final blueprints in order to prepare for the stretch run.

The best part about trade deadlines in any sport is the fact that it allows every fan to play general manager, at least for one day.

With that being said, that’s exactly what we are doing here as I take a trip around the FanSided Network, asking NBA editors exactly what they would do if they were the general managers of their respective franchise.

Let’s get right into it and feel free to comment on what moves you would make for your favorite team.

Feb 11, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith (5) prepares to enter the game against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. The Hawks beat the Mavs 105-101. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Boston Celtics: Michael Sykes, Hardwood Houdini

For the Celtics, I’ve used the trade machine to construct a monster three team deal between the Hawks, Celtics, and Milwaukee Bucks.

In the deal, the Celtics acquire Josh Smith–who will likely be moved–but they also take in Lou Williams, Luc Richard Mbah Moute, and John Henson. Lou Williams’ deal is probably going to be a snag if that ever game into fruition because he makes $5 million per year over the next three. He’s not a player who fits well into Doc Rivers defensive constructs, but he’ll add a scoring punch that Boston definitely needs.

The Hawks will bring in Samuel Dalambert along with Avery Bradley, Jared Sullinger, and Drew Gooden. They’ll get an expiring contract with two rookie deals in this to make cap space to go after Dwight Howard and/or Chris Paul. They’ll have to bring in Gooden, who has a pretty hefty contract making around 7 million over the next three years, but after getting rid of Smith it shouldn’t be too much of a hit.

The Bucks will get Jeff Green, Brandon Bass, Jason Terry, and Fab Melo. They’ll get a lot of help that from Jeff Green on a team that is lacking quality wing players other than Mike Dunleavy and Monta Ellis–if you really can count him as a wing player. They’ll bring in a young, raw center and two versatile veterans in Jason Terry and Brandon Bass.

Brooklyn Nets: Jonah Mars, From Russia With Dunk

The Brooklyn Nets have been one of the most talked-about teams during this trade period, but chances are still probably greater that they will not make a move than that they will.

However, one of the biggest rumors they have been involved with is a trade for Josh Smith. In my proposed trade, Smith would come to Brooklyn, the Nets will send MarShon Brooks, Kris Humphries, and draft picks to Milwaukee, and the Bucks send Brandon Jennings and Beno Udrih to Atlanta.

This trade makes sense for all teams involved. The Nets need a skilled power forward to come in and be able to score this season, which neither Reggie Evans nor Humphries have been able to do. The question for Brooklyn is if they will be able to re-sign Smith in the offseason. The trade makes sense for Atlanta because they acquire someone who can become a franchise point guard in the future. The move only works for the Hawks if they can re-sign Jennings, which they should be able to do if they agree to this trade.

It makes sense for Milwaukee because Jennings has made it clear he does not want to play there much longer and they will get some value for him. The Bucks have been interested in Humphries in the past and they will be able to give Brooks more playing time. The Nets have a lot of draft picks they can trade to the Bucks to help them in the future. Maybe one first and one second-round pick from Brooklyn will sweeten the deal for Milwaukee.

The Nets don’t need to make a trade and chances still are that one will not happen.

Feb 19, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic shooting guard J.J. Redick (7) reacts during the first quarter against the Charlotte Bobcats at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Douglas Jones-USA TODAY Sports

Chicago Bulls: Caleb Nordgren, Pippen Ain’t Easy

The Chicago Bulls trade Richard Hamilton, Marco Belinelli and a first-round pick (via CHA) to the Orlando Magic for J.J. Redick.

The Bulls desperately need shooting and Redick’s one of the best in the business. He’s having a career year on the worst team he’s ever played for and his efficiency and passing numbers are somehow up despite the lack of surrounding talent. The Bulls once almost acquired Redick in 2010, and they could really use him now.
Cleveland Cavaliers:  Zachary Kolesar, Right Down Euclid

For the Cavaliers, they would likely be a part of a multi-team trade, as they make a valuable trade partner due to their vast cap space. That would mean they would ship off the expiring contracts of Daniel Gibson, Luke Walton and Omri Casspi. Teams aren’t going out looking for these guys, but it would be a good way for the Cavs to dump off some money before the trade deadline. If they’re going to be involved in a straight-up trade, I would expect them to move a guy like Marresse Speights for a low first rounder. Ever since joining Cleveland Speights’s stock has skyrocketed, as he has seen more minutes on the depleted Cleveland bench.
Denver Nuggets: Michael Waterloo, Nugg Love

From everything I’ve heard the Nuggets are staying pat. I don’t mind that. However, dealing Timofey Mozgov would make sense to me. He’s third on the depth chart and produces when he played. He just is buried behind Kostas Koufos and JaVale McGee. His contract expires at the end of the season and he can be signed for cheap.

The Nuggets could look to Boston who still need a big. They likely will lose him anyway so taking a first or a second or even a project like Fab Melo would make sense for the Nuggets.

J.J. Redick for Mozgov and Wilson Chandler makes sense but Redick wants to stay in Orlando and is planning on re-signing this offseason.

February 13, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Smith (5) backs Orlando Magic guard-forward Arron Afflalo (4) down in the paint at Amway Center. The magic lost 108-77. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Griffith-USA TODAY Sports

Here’s a look at what is hot around The Association as we try and sort out every rumor on this Tuesday morning.

Josh Smith

Smith remains the biggest name on the block that could be dealt by Thursday and it appears that the Hawks want to move him sooner rather than later, tweets Marc Stein of ESPN.com. But to who?

The Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets keep being mentioned the most, but there are problems with both scenarios.

With Kevin Garnett not willing to waive his no-trade clause, the Celtics would have to move Paul Pierce in order to take on Smith’s contract. On the other hand, Brooklyn will have to get a third team involved. It should take much more than an offer of Kris Humphries and MarShon Brooks to pull a talent like J-Smoove.

Ultimately Smith will get dealt, but I expect Atlanta general manager Danny Ferry to draw this out and wait for a surprise team that will come in and offer up the right package of young talent and picks.

J.J. Redick

The Magic say they are open to re-signing him, but sending him to New York for Iman Shumpert makes sense for both teams, as Hoopsworld’s Alex Kennedy reports. But that will take a third team involved as well. It’s no given that Redick will be in a Magic uniform after Thursday, but I will be mildly surprised if he is dealt.

The Magic and Knicks have discussed a J.J. Redick for Iman Shumpert trade. Other players (and maybe a third team) would have to be involved.

— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 19, 2013

Dwight Howard

It appears as if the Los Angeles Lakers will hold onto Howard and roll the dice in trying to sign him, which may backfire in a big way. There has been rumors about a Rajon Rondo for Howard swap, but those were quickly shot down by Lakers’ general manager Mitch Kupchak.

Kevin Garnett

KG has said he won’t waive his no-trade clause, so a rumored deal to the Los Angeles Clippers for Eric Bledsoe and DeAndre Jordan appears all but dead.

Feb 12, 2013; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz power forward Paul Millsap (24) grabs a rebound during the first quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at EnergySolutions Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

Utah Jazz

It is felt around the league that either Paul Millsap or Al Jefferson will be dealt as the Jazz can’t re-sign both, but every other day it appears that a different guy is going to be on the move. This will likely draw out until Thursday afternoon, but I expect Millsap to be dealt to one of a number of suitors.

 “I think they’ll trade one of them because they can’t keep both,” a rival GM tells Ian Thomsen of SI.com. ”But I’m never sure which one will go. One day I think it’s going to be Jefferson, and the next day it will be Millsap.”

J.J. Hickson

There is a lot of interest in the Blazers big man, but nothing currently cooking that would make you believe that he would be on the move. However things can change in the next couple of days so I would keep my eye on Hickson being shopped.

Carlos Boozer

Boozer has been mentioned in a deal with the Toronto Raptors in exchange for Andre Bargnani, but whether that materializes or not, some think Boozer could be on the move anyway.

One league source tells Vince Ellis of the Detroit Free Press that he thinks Boozer is the player most likely to be moved by Thursday (Twitter link).

Andrea Bargnani

The Raptors would love to move the former No. 1 overall pick and while assuming Boozer’s salary may not be ideal, they will continue to shop Bargnani. He will be traded, but the Raptors could hold onto him and look for a better offer in the offseason.

Iman Shumpert

Shump’s name has popped up a lot recently, which despite Knicks head coach Mike Woodson telling the second-year guard last week that he wouldn’t  be dealt, it makes it seem like  the  Knicks are actively looking to move the Georgia Tech product. He has been linked to the Orlando Magic for Redick, the Minnesota Timberwolves for Luke Ridnour and the Phoenix Suns for Jared Dudley.

The Knicks are in win-now mode and Shumpert is the only way they can acquire a major piece to try and accomplish that.

Milwaukee Bucks

It is felt around the league that the Bucks will do something big and that likely means parting with point guard Brandon Jennings or even shooting guard Monta Ellis. Teams like Dallas could be hot after Jennings, as Milwaukee is a team to keep your eye on as Thursday’s deadline rapidly approaches.

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While none of the previous ones really excited me, most notably to the Phoenix Suns for Jared Dudley, or to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Luke Ridnour, the latest set of rumors are ones to raise an eyebrow at.

February 10, 2013; Orlando FL, USA; Orlando Magic shooting guard J.J. Redick (7) shoots a three pointer against the Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Amway Center. Orlando Magic defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 110-104. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Alex Kennedy of Hoopsworld reports that the Knicks and Orlando Magic have discussed a deal involving Iman Shumpert for J.J. Redick.

Kennedy says via Twitter:

The Magic and Knicks have discussed a J.J. Redick for Iman Shumpert trade. Other players (and maybe a third team) would have to be involved. Nothing imminent, but it’s something to keep an eye on over next few days. Redick helps NY win now, Shumpert gives ORL another young piece.

This is an interesting move as it would represent the Knicks wanting to win now. I still would prefer a legitimate big man, but Redick is having a fantastic season, averaging 15.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 4.4 assists in 31.6 minutes per game, which are all career-highs for the Duke product. He is also connecting at a 40.2 percent clip from behind the arc this season, which only Steve Novak has a better percentage among current Knicks players.

With as many three’s as the Knicks shoot, it would be nice to add a guy like Redick, who can knock them down with consistency.

He will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1st and while the Magic have said they would be open to re-signing him, his value could go up even more with a strong finish to the season, which ultimately could force the Magic to watch Redick walk and get no compensation in return.

As for Shumpert, he gives a young Magic team another young athletic piece to build around in the future.

He’s averaging 5.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists on just 33.8 percent shooting and has seen his role diminish on this current Knicks team. He is just coming back off knee surgery though and it remains to be seen exactly what Shumpert’s role is now, and in the future.

I have been quick to diminish any rumor involving Shump so far, but this Redick rumor is interesting and is something I would think about if the Knicks are indeed trying to win now.

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Feb 13, 2013; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks point guard Iman Shumpert (21) goes after a loose ball against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at Madison Square Garden. The Raptors won the game 92-88. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The second-year guard has been involved in a few Knicks trade rumors the past couple of weeks and even though Knicks’ head coach Mike Woodson came out last week and said that Shump wouldn’t be traded, it appears that option is still on the table.

Chris Sheridan of SheridanHoops.com reported that a  source tells him that Shumpert is unhappy with being played out of position at small forward, and wants to either see his developmental situation resolved or be moved.

In the past couple of weeks, Shumpert has been linked in rumored deals involving the Phoenix Suns’ Jared Dudley and the Minnesota Timberwolves’ Luke Ridnour, but the thought process is that the Knicks would have to get a lot more in return to deal their only young building block.

Sheridan indicated that people close to Shumpert prefer Shump to be in another situation, but Shumpert’s agent Happy Walters took to Twitter to call that report “totally false,” adding that no one in Shumpert’s camp has asked for a trade.

That doesn’t necessarily mean that a deal involving Shumpert won’t happen, but Walters seems to suggest the second-year guard is happy in New York, even though there have been plenty of reports the past couple of weeks that would suggest the opposite.

Despite those rumors, I still don’t believe the Knicks will move Shump by Thursday’s deadline, but stranger things have happened before.

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There have been a few trade rumors pop up recently involving the Knicks, but the option to sign a free agent is still out there.

May 11, 2012; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Memphis Grizzlies power forward Zach Randolph (50) defends as Los Angeles Clippers power forward Kenyon Martin (2) sets up to dunk in the second half of game 6 of the Western Conference quarterfinals of the 2012 NBA Playoffs at the Staples Center. Grizzlies won 90-88. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

When you mention the words free agent as it associates with the Knicks, the first name that comes to mind is Kenyon Martin, who has been linked to the Knicks all season.

That is the case once again as Alex Kennedy of HoopsWorld reports that the Knicks have had internal discussions about possibly going after Kenyon Martin or Louis Amundson.

That all stems from the fact that both Rasheed Wallace and Marcus Camby are still out with injuries and the Knicks need frontcourt depth badly.

Knicks’ head coach Mike Woodson  has said repeatedly that ‘Sheed would return sometime after the All-Star break, but Kennedy notes that internally there appears to be some doubt about just how effective he’ll be.

Currently with 15 guaranteed contracts, the Knicks would have to release someone and eat the money or find a way to create a roster spot via trade in order to sign a free agent.

If they stand pat at the trade deadline, Kennedy thinks that New York will wait and see just how productive Wallace will be once he re-joins the lineup before determining whether or not they will look to sign Martin or Amundson for the remainder of the season.

Amundson has drawn interest from both the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers, who both are below the maximum 15 players and wouldn’t have to make a move in order to sign him.

There is no market for Martin, who hasn’t been linked to any other team except the Knicks all season.

Teams have until April 17 to sign free agents.

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Now it appears those talks are centered around Timberwolves’ point guard Luke Ridnour.

Hoopsworld’s Alex Kennedy has reported that according to sources the Knicks are indeed hot after the 10-year pro.

The New York Knicks have expressed interest in Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Luke Ridnour, according to source.

— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 13, 2013

Feb 11, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Luke Ridnour (13) calls a play in the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Ridnour is having a very nice season, averaging 12.2 points and 3.9 assists per game, while shooting 46.3 percent from the floor, but it makes you wonder why the Knicks would be targeting a point guard at all?

The Knicks trio of Raymond Felton, Jason Kidd and Pablo Prigioni have been very good this season and it makes little sense to add to that mix unless the Knicks were working on something else with another team that could involve Iman Shumpert.

The main need for the Knicks right now is frontcourt depth, especially with Marcus Camby and Rasheed Wallace still out of the lineup.

Ridnour doesn’t solve that problem.

There is some thought that the ‘Wolves would be interested in Ronnie Brewer, as they not only had interest in him during the offseason, but need healthy bodies at the moment.

But being that Ridnour makes $4 million, a trade for Brewer can’t happen. With both teams having 15 guaranteed contracts, there isn’t much flexibility between the two teams.

It’s odd to begin with that the Knicks have expressed interest in another point guard, but who knows what the plan is. It is quite possible that potentially acquiring Ridnour will trigger another move.

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Feb 8, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Knicks point guard Iman Shumpert (21) drives to the basket past Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio (9) in the first half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Knicks’ fans can take some comfort in the fact that head coach Mike Woodson appears to have put an end to the Shumpert trade rumors for now, by saying that the team will not be trading Shumpert by the February 21 trade deadline.

Woodson made the statement while appearing on ESPN New York 98.7 FM on Tuesday. When asked by co-host Stephen A. Smith if Shumpert would be in a Knicks uniform after the Feb. 21 trade deadline, Woodson said, “You got it. I don’t need to say any more.”

That’s quite the change in stance for Woodson in less than a week.

Early last week he had tried to help Shumpert shake off the trade rumors, but couldn’t go as far as saying that the Georgia Tech product wouldn’t be dealt.

Shumpert’s name recently popped up in a rumor with the Phoenix Suns in a potential deal for Jared Dudley and any other rumor from now until the trade deadline will almost certainly include Shumpert’s name.

There are two schools of thought on dealing Shumpert.

The first is as Carmelo Anthony recently said, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

But if that is the case, do these Knicks, as currently constructed have enough to win a championship? Remember that is the goal here.

The second school of though is win now.

If the Knicks can add a legitimate piece, and it has to be a legitimate piece, it could make sense to go for it now. But you just don’t throw Shumpert in a deal to try and change things up. Knicks’ general manager Glen Grunwald has to bring back an All-Star type of player if he decides to move Shump and that isn’t likely.

My feeling on the situation remains the same and that is that Shumpert’s name will continue to pop up daily in different rumors, but at the end of the day he isn’t going anywhere.

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As of now, it is unclear of exactly what players are being discussed from the two teams, but according to Darren Wolfson of 1500 ESPN Twin Cities, ‘Wolves general manager David Kahn is in talks with the Knicks.

Wolfson tweets that Ronnie Brewer could be headed to Minnesota, but that hasn’t been confirmed. Minnesota did made an offer to Brewer over the summer before he signed with the Knicks.

That’s who I think. #Twolves made him an offer in the summer. He chose NY instead. RT ‏@sportinggoose @darrenwolfson Ronnie Brewer possibly?

— Darren Wolfson (@DarrenWolfson) February 13, 2013

The most likely scenario is that the Knicks are targeting frontcourt depth, while Minnesota simply needs some healthy bodies at this point as they have been ravaged by injuries this season.

Feb 2, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Greg Stiemsma (34) looks on in the second half after getting a technical foul against the New Orleans Hornets at Target Center. The Timberwolves 115-86 Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

The Wolves have been shopping Luke Ridnour, according to Chris Sheridan of SheridanHoops.com, but the Knicks, like the Wolves, seem set at point guard. The Wolves’ most glaring need is at the 2-guard position, and while shooting guard Iman Shumpert’s name has been linked to the Suns, it doesn’t seem like Minnesota would have enough to offer back for the Knicks to part with the second-year guard.

One guy I could see making sense for the Knicks is Minnesota backup center Greg Stiemsma, who would add some size to the Knicks bench and also adds toughness and defense. Stiemsma is only making $2.575 million this season, which makes a deal possible.

Both teams have the maximum of 15 guaranteed contracts so there isn’t much flexibility on either side. In addition, the Knicks are taxpaying team while the Timberwolves are well below the tax line. That could play a role, but with the Knicks in contention, it is doubtful they are just trying to dump salary and the ‘Wolves likely won’t want to take a lot of money back since they are looking forward to next season.

One interesting note is that the Knicks did have interest in big man Lou Amundson, whom the Wolves just waived.

We will keep you up to date if these talks progress.

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That piece is likely a legitimate post presence such as Utah’s Paul Millsap or another big body that can score with his back to the basket in the post.

Feb 8, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Knicks point guard Iman Shumpert (21) drives to the basket past Minnesota Timberwolves point guard Ricky Rubio (9) in the first half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

However it won’t be easy to acquire that piece as the Knicks don’t have the trade assets to entice a team to part with a major piece.

The only attractive trade chip they have- second-year guard Iman Shumpert- has seen his name pop up in a few trade rumors over the weekend, prompting the question of if the Knicks would trade the fan favorite and only player on the roster currently under the age of 27?

A Shumpert deal does make some sense.

If the Knicks are indeed in win now mode, then dangling Shumpert to acquire that piece makes sense. But the problem with that scenario is that the Knicks would need a lot more than Shump to entice a team to part with an All-Star type talent.

The Knicks don’t have enough young talent to make a deal, nor do they have enough future first round picks to offer. Remember that salaries have to come close to matching and if the Knicks were to take on major salary, they would have to part with some. They don’t have enough expiring contracts and teams won’t be interested in acquiring the likes of Ronnie Brewer and Chris Copeland.

Pretty much all talks the Knicks would be in will center around Shumpert and they don’t have enough other tradable parts to make a deal.

That won’t stop teams from trying though.

The Phoenix Suns reportedly have interest in Shumpert in a deal that would center around Jared Dudley and a first-round pick. Naturally the Knicks want Phoenix to take Brewer instead, but that has no chance of happening.

If I am Knicks’ general manager Glen Grunwald, it takes a lot more than Dudley for me even to consider parting with Shumpert.

Carmelo Anthony feels the same, telling the New York Post’s Marc Berman that Shumpert shouldn’t be worried about trade rumors.

“He shouldn’t be worrying about that,’’ Anthony said. “The Knicks shouldn’t even be in trade talks right now.’’

Newsday’s Al Iannazzone chimed in by reporting that Knicks’ head coach Mike Woodson talked to Shumpert about downplaying the rumors, but wouldn’t go as far as saying that the second-year guard wouldn’t be traded.

Shumpert and Knicks fans alike shouldn’t be worried. He is unlikely to go anywhere.

The only way Shumpert gets dealt is if they can bring in a legitimate piece to help them win a championship and even then, the Knicks will have a problem making a deal happen.

If it is about winning a championship then dealing Shumpert makes sense.

But dealing Shumpert just to make a deal absolutely does not and it is something that more than likely will not happen.

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