Detroit Pistons power forward Greg Monroe is reportedly drawing trade interest from the Atlanta Hawks and the New York Knicks, according to a source close to situation.
Monroe, who is averaging at least 14 points and 9 rebounds per game, has been one of the hottest names on the trading front for the past couple of seasons. However, there are reports that the Detroit Pistons are on the verge of pulling off a deal to finally trade Monroe in exchange for assets before the February trade deadline.
"[Stan Van Gundy] The president and coach requested All-Star caliber players in return, league sources told RealGM via Bleacher Report. In one instance, two other franchises had agreed to a three-team deal that needed the Pistons' acceptance, delivering Monroe a maximum-level contract, opposing team executives involved pushed for it. Only, Detroit rejected."
Real GM NBA insider Shams Charania reported there at least 12 teams interested in acquiring Monroe, but the Knickerbockers and the Hawks are viewed as the most likely landing spots for Monroe, who will become an unrestricted free-agent this season.
"Over a dozen teams should have the necessary cap space to attract Monroe. The New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks are two prospective suitors for the 6-foot-11 center, with the Knicks' possibility to move onto Monroe should Marc Gasol re-sign with the Memphis Grizzlies and the Hawks already placing an interest in the offseason," said Charania.
With the big contract of power forward Andrea Bargnani and Amar'e Stoudemire expiring at the end of the season, the Knicks will have enough cap space to sign at least two max players. Memphis Grizzlies All-Star center Marc Gasol is believed to be the primary free-agent target for the Knicks, with signing Monroe said to be the plan B of vice president for basketball operations Phil Jackson.
Meanwhile, the Hawks will also have enough money to spend for a talented big man next summer. With Paul Millsap expected to hit the free-agency market as well, Hawks general manager Danny Ferry is targeting Monroe to pair alongside All-Star center Al Horford.
Then again, these teams could acquire Monroe even before he becomes a free-agent by giving the Pistons the assets they are looking for in exchange for the productive big man.
The Knicks have youngsters like Iman Shumpert and Tim Hardaway as potential trade bait alongside the expiring deals of Stoudemire and Bargnani, while the Hawks could send some of their draft picks or perhaps point guard Dennis Schroder, who is becoming a very solid point guard at a young age.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
