By Brian Yalung
The New York Knicks waived Brandon Jennings recently, a surprise move just four days after the NBA trade deadline. There are various reasons suggested, the first of which is the concern on the 27-year-old guard’s mindset.
That dish comes from Adrian Wojnarowski of the Vertical. The Knicks agreed to pay Jennings the balance of his $5 million contract this season. Right now, the guess is on as to which team would pick up Jennings.
According to Knicks coach Jeff Hornacek via the NY Post, Jennings wanted more playing time. With Derrick Rose eating up much of that, more minutes was a tough one to grant.
The New York Knicks are waiving guard Brandon Jennings, league sources tell @TheVertical.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojVerticalNBA) February 27, 2017
The waiving of Jennings was compounded with new that Joakim Noah has been ruled out for the season. With two roster spots open, the Knicks will reportedly sign Chasson Randle and Ron Baker to fill on the open roster spots.
Several teams could use a backup guard right now. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, and the Houston Rockets have their eyes on the players being waived, particularly Deron Williams and Jose Calderon.
Williams already joined the Cavaliers while the Warriors and the Rockets are being linked to Calderon. It will be interesting if the team that falls short in the chase for Calderon will pursue Jennings.
A return to the Detroit Pistons was suggested but shot down by coach Stan Van Gundy. Curiously, Van Gundy revealed that Jennings was on his way to the Charlotte Hornets. He got word of the move from Jennings’ agent whom he spoke to Monday Morning, CBS Sports reported.
Jennings appeared in 58 games and averaged 8.6 points, 4.9 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game.
