Bill Simmons name-drops volume shooter as potential Immanuel Quickley replacement for Knicks

The New York Knicks traded away RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley and a second-round pick to acquire OG Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa and Malachi Flynn on Saturday. Anunoby is one of the best wing defenders in the NBA. He will instantly improve the Knicks on both sides of the floor.

However, losing Quickley will be a big blow to New York's bench production. The 24-year-old guard is averaging 15 points, 2.6 rebounds and 2.5 assists, shooting 45.4% from the field and 39.5% from three-point range. The Knicks don't have anyone on their roster who can step into such a high-scoring bench role. 

Prominent NBA analyst Bill Simmons believes the Knicks could now turn their attention to Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz. The veteran guard was the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year in 2021. He could instantly prove to be an upgrade over Quickley off the bench and has a two-year, $28.3 million contract extension that will kick in next season. 

"Guessing NYK’s next move will be flipping an expiring plus a protected first to Utah for Clarkson — just give him the old IQ minutes," Simmons posted on X. "And Utah needs to create PT for Sexton and George."

If the Knicks are able to swing a deal to land Clarkson, their roster will look far stronger than it did to begin the season. Yes, Mitchell Robinson's season-ending injury has hit them hard. However, Achiuwa can help provide cover at the center position. Still, Anunoby and Clarkson would be solid upgrades over Barrett and Quickley — both incoming players are ready to win now rather than needing additional developmental time to continue progressing in their development.

In the past three seasons, the Knicks have made the playoffs twice. They had a first-round exit against the Atlanta Hawks, then last season, they were eliminated in the second round by the Miami Heat. Anunoby and Clarkson could potentially take them one step further. 

The Knicks are improving. They clearly have a vision, and finally, they're not stuck on the idea of a superstar. How far Anunoby's addition can take them will rely on what move they make next.