In a surprising move that has basketball fans buzzing, the New York Knicks are set to acquire point guard Jose Alvarado from the New Orleans Pelicans. This trade involves sending Dalen Terry, along with two second-round draft picks and some cash, to New Orleans, as reported by ESPN's Shams Charania.
Jose Alvarado, who hails from Brooklyn, has made a name for himself in the NBA as an unwavering defender and a tenacious player, even after going undrafted. His professional journey began in 2021 when he signed a two-way contract with the Pelicans. His impressive performance quickly caught the team's attention, leading to a conversion of his deal to a standard NBA contract.
At 27 years old, Alvarado is having a solid season, averaging 7.9 points and just under one steal per game. He’s affectionately known as "Grand Theft Alvarado" due to his exceptional knack for snatching inbounds passes from unsuspecting opponents. This skill has become a hallmark of his playing style, showcasing his quick reflexes and defensive prowess.
Last season, Alvarado secured an extension with the Pelicans and holds a player option worth $4.5 million for the upcoming season, adding an interesting layer to his value in this trade.
On the other side of the transaction, the Knicks have recently acquired Dalen Terry from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for Guerschon Yabusele, and now Terry is being rerouted to New Orleans. At just 23 years old, Terry is on an expiring contract, which means he will enter free agency this summer, making his future quite uncertain.
This trade raises intriguing questions about both teams’ strategies moving forward. Will Alvarado bring the defensive spark the Knicks need? Or is this a risky gamble for New Orleans? Share your thoughts below—do you think this trade will pay off for the Knicks or the Pelicans?
