Iman Shumpert was believed to be on the trading block since the start of the season, but the recent turn of events will likely make the combo guard a vital part of New York Knicks' future.
The NY Post reported on Monday that Phil Jackson, who is set to take full control of the Knicks' front office, is high on Shumpert with sources indicating that the 23-year-old guard will be a good fit to the triangle offense, which is expected to be implemented next season.
"Shumpert appears to have a legitimate future with Phil Jackson's Knicks. According to a league source, Jackson is a fan of Shumpert. Shumpert is a defensive-minded player who sacrifices his game and doesn't need to score a lot to have an impact," the NY Post reported.
Shumpert was almost traded before last month's trade deadline and reports revealed that Knicks and the Los Angeles Clippers already had a deal in place.
Shumpert was supposed to be dealt to the Clippers for Darren Collison and Matt Barnes, but Shumpert sustained a sprained MCL in his left knee during the eve of the trade deadline, forcing the Clippers to back out of the deal.
The third-year guard is still struggling to hit expectations under Mike Woodson's system in which he is being used a small forward in their small-ball lineup.
But with Jackson's arrival, Shumpert is optimistic that changes will be made, which will make him a better fit to the Knicks and a better player under the legendary coach's watch.
"Whatever Phil adds on, I'm sure will be positive for this ballclub. I'm happy about it. Anything that will help my game - he's had success helping players," Shumpert said.
Starting center Tyson Chandler, who also had his fair share of struggles this season, is also expecting that Jackson will turn the Knicks into a contender in the near future, citing Jackson's ability to attract free agents.
"I don't know him personally, I just have all the respect in the world for him, what he's been able to accomplish. I've been in a series against him, and you can't say much more than he's basketball royalty," Chandler said on Jackson.
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