Russell Westbrook and the Thunder are searching for trades after Paul George orchestrated his way out of Oklahoma City. It goes without saying: The Knicks shouldn't bite _ actually, they can't.
NBA teams are prohibited from trading newly signed players for three months, or until Jan. 15, whichever is later. The Thunder need to find a trade for Westbrook as soon as possible.
But even if the Knicks were eligible, a trade under these circumstances would be the worst possible decision. Westbrook is a polarizing talent, but the facts are undeniable: He's 30 years old and has four years worth $171 million left on his contract. The Knicks are in a youth movement after striking out on stars in free agency. New York is in its own process. It has to trust it.
There are other teams, though, that can benefit from going all in on a deal with the former MVP and triple-double machine. Those teams are stuck in limbo, and should want to sacrifice future assets for a chance to bring in a player who wants to win now.
