Stan Van Gundy views the Zion Williamson-to-New York rumors as simply one other instance of the Knicks’ “vanity,” taking a rhetorical torch to the thought on “The Dan Le Batard Present.”
“It’s attainable,” mentioned Van Gundy, the final particular person to teach Williamson in an NBA sport. “However hear. The Knicks have this factor and it’s wonderful. Regardless of what number of instances individuals have confirmed they don’t need to play for the Knicks, the Knicks have this concept that everyone within the league needs to play for the Knicks. Now what's the final time it really occurred that anyone got here and tried to get their technique to New York? Like, by no means within the final 20 years?
“However nonetheless the Knicks and Knicks followers assume everyone is attempting to get to the Knicks. I’m not saying [Zion] received’t find yourself there — there’s all types of how individuals can find yourself someplace — however this concept that everyone needs to be a New York Knick, I imply if that have been the case, then they wouldn’t be as unhealthy as they’ve been for the final 20 years.”
The rumor has been sparked after Williamson, who continues to rehab an damage, was described as “indifferent” by JJ Redick, a former teammate in New Orleans. The Knicks tanked for Williamson when he was a prospect at Duke, however got here up brief within the lottery.
Upon getting drafted by the Pelicans, the 21-year-old expressed admiration for town of New Orleans, however he’s performed simply 85 video games in three years and questions surrounding his health proceed to swirl.
Whether or not Williamson can be the participant he’s marketed as ought to the Knicks handle to amass him is an open query. Alongside the identical line, it’s additionally value questioning whether or not the ahead is value a max extension, which he’s eligible for this summer season.
“Nobody but has handed on signing the extension,” Van Gundy mentioned. “Nobody but. It’s too profitable. So he’s first acquired to signal. After which it usually takes a 12 months or two earlier than individuals are forcing themselves some other place. So I feel we’re somewhat untimely on all of this.
“And I don’t know what the Knicks would have that New Orleans would soar at proper now. I simply don’t. Who would they need? Evan Fournier?”
The concept of Donovan Mitchell going to New York — one other longtime rumor that’s by no means come to fruition — additionally drew Van Gundy’s ire.
“The Knicks’ vanity as a corporation has astounded me the whole time I’ve been within the league,” Van Gundy mentioned. “You'll assume this can be a perennial champion, this nice group that everybody needs to play for. Please. C’mon. Can we cease it? Simply because the Knicks followers desire a participant doesn’t imply everyone seems to be attempting to get there.”
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