The New York Knicks and Sacramento Kings are discussing a trade involving Enes Kanter and Zach Randolph, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Such a trade seems like it would make zero sense for the Knicks at first glance but, in actuality, it makes total sense for both teams as both players are on expiring contracts.
Kanter, a very talented center, would provide another body that could help the Kings make the playoffs this season, while New York would be getting rid of what has developed into a sour situation, as well as taking on a player who would not affect their salary cap for next term.
RELATED: ENES KANTER SAYS HE DIDN'T ASK FOR TRADE IN MEETING WITH KNICKS GM
Incidentally, it was Knicks GM Scott Perry who signed Randolph for the Kings in 2017, before moving to New York. And the player, who already spent time at Madison Square Garden in the past (2007-2008), also played under present Knicks head coach David Fizdale in Memphis.
The veteran forward hasn't played a single game this season while Kanter has been left disgruntled with the bench duty he has been assigned to in recent games. The Turkish big man was quite vocal about the reduced role and has also revealed having a talk with Perry about it.
The 20-21 Kings are more likely to make the playoffs than the Knicks and Kanter could be the man who helps them get there. The center is averaging 14.4 points and 11.0 rebounds per game this season and, with the Kings certainly looking like a team on the rise, an added big could see them remain active past the regular season.
New York, meanwhile, are keen on moving the player but don't want to take on any contracts which will count against their cap for next season.
What This Means
Randolph seems the ideal player for the Knicks' ambitions. Additionally, the 37-year-old plays at power forward, a position where the team could use a bit of help in.
They would also have the option of waiving him and signing a younger prospect.
Kanter, on the other hand, is playing for a new contract and would stand a better chance of getting one on a team where he will be allowed to start, as well as play major minutes.