Fans Ignorance Sparks Complaints

23 jan. 2003
The Knicks have now made it two straight years without making a trade before the trading deadline. In my opinion, that is all for the good.
For the past few days, so called Knick fans have been calling sports radio shows and complaining about Layden's inept trading policies. Some may wonder how the Knicks (23-31) could not have made a trade.
But, the general public does not comprehend what goes into a trade. First of all, both teams must be interested in the deal. There is no such thing as a trade involving Knight for Kobe!
Secondly, contracts now dominate trade talks. An argument often brought up is why don't the Knicks trade Houston?
Despite Houston's potential to contribute to a team, his contract is enormous, and for most teams not worth picking up. Currently, teams are just as concerned with lowering their cap situation as with bringing in good players.

In my opinion, Layden did the right thing by not acting on a deal unless it truly helped the team. Deals like Sprewell for Antonio Davis are illogical and would only make the situation worse. Honestly, would bringing in another role player who is past his prime solve the Knicks' problems? Would it make the fans happy? The answer is a resounding NO! There is not point in acquiring a player who makes the team marginally better. Remember, when receiving a new player the entire team chemistry is thrown off.
The Knicks, who are chasing the final playoff spot, cannot afford to lose because of a lack of chemistry.

While I know there is no way this is going to happen, I suggest that Knick fans allow Layden to do the worrying. The truth is the public doesn't know what goes on behind the scenes. There could have been trade talks going on all day. For all we know, Layden could have had a huge deal in place that fell through at the last second. Keep in mind, Layden was working with a group of NBA teams that weren't interested in making trades. Knick fans must be patient. Believe it or not, Layden will come through. Chances are, a midseason trade would not have changed the team that much. Expect a consequential trade in the off-season. For now, be content that the Knicks are a competitive team. I offer my personal guarantee that the Knicks will become a contending team in a short amount of time!!!
by jay@knicksonline.tk

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