The New York Knicks' chances at trading away Iman Shumpert might be officially over. New York had been hoping to use Shumpert in a trade with the Los Angeles Clippers before the approaching trade deadline, but a recent injury has tabled all discussion.
The Knicks may have gotten the win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night, but it cost them the health of Shumpert. The shooting guard suffered a knee sprain during the game and Yahoo Sports is reporting he might be dealing with MCL issues that could keep him on the bench for some time. ESPN's Chris Broussard is now reporting the Los Angeles Clippers appear to no longer be interested in acquiring Shumpert before Thursday's deadline.
The Clippers were reluctant to strike a deal in the first play and now the injury does not help. The Knicks were offering up a variety of trade packages to get players like Darren Collison and Matt Barnes. The Clippers were not interested in taking on the contract of Raymond Felton who is struggling this season as it is. They also did not like a deal that included Reggie Bullock. Shumpert was the key piece in the trade and now NBA sources report Los Angeles is no longer interested.
This leaves the Knicks forced to make smaller trades. They are discussing swapping point guard Ben Udrih for Nuggets guard Jordan Hamilton. There is also the potential of acquiring either Kenneth Faried or Andre Miller from Denver if the team is willing to take on Felton's contract. Denver has been skittish with both deals. If the Knicks can get a third team involved in the deal, they might be able to make something work despite Shumpert no longer being available.
The Knicks trading period has been one failed effort after another. The team has no draft picks to offer anyone and not enough assets to acquire someone noteworthy. The Knicks have tried to chase after Kyle Lowry, Rajon Rondo and Jeff Teague, but every pursuit has been met with a dead end.
New York appears most likely to pull off a deal with Udrih. The chances something happens with the Clippers is likely over even though the two teams have been in talks for almost a week.
