KNICK NOTES
The Magic were scared off by Jamal Crawford and his long-term deal two days ago, according to sources.
As a result, Crawford likely will remain a Knick after today’s trading deadline, with the Magic taking what the Knicks thought was a weaker package of Trevor Ariza added to the heavily sought expiring contract of Penny Hardaway.
Had the deal been Crawford and Hardaway, the Knicks would have had to take Pat Garrity and possibly two other players, including one of the Magic’s European draft picks who has no intention of playing in the NBA, sources said.
A relieved and worndown Isiah Thomas admitted last night he was probably done, with Crawford staying put. The Nuggets didn’t have much interest in taking Crawford for Earl Watson.
“I would say we’re pretty satisfied with where we are,” said Thomas, who has added Francis and Jalen Rose in a span of three weeks. “There’s still time left before the deadline. I’m not actively out trying to make a deal. It’s pretty safe to say. We’re happy. If there’s an opportunity to improve the team, I’ll definitely look at it.”
Crawford seemed jittery at yesterday’s morning shootaround with reports he’d be in the imminent Francis deal, asking each reporter’s prediction.
“I have no doubt I’m an up-and-coming player,” Crawford said. “I understand when you lose like this, it happens. Nobody planned for us to be 15-37 with this kind of talent. When you lose like this, anything can happen. If it happens, it’s not a knock on me personally. My first, second and third choice is to stay here. I’d love to stay here.”
Meanwhile, if this blingbling backcourt of Marbury and Francis works, more power to Thomas. If not, Thomas will look to trade one of the two this summer.
The Knicks have two late first-round picks and the expiring contracts of Mo Taylor and Jalen Rose also to offer up as pawns in massive deals this summer or at next season’s trading deadline.
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Brown had a big laugh at the rumor the Wolves wanted to deal Kevin Garnett to the Knicks for Channing Frye and Hardaway and his expiring contract.
The Knicks have had discussions with Minnesota but claim the Wolves said Garnett is off the market for now.
“Kevin Garnett’s name doesn’t get mentioned much,” Brown said. “I can’t imagine that happening.”