Could Stevie Franchise soon be bound for Broadway? The Knicks and Magic are close to a deal that would send three-time All-Star guard Steve Francis to New York for a package of players, according to two league sources. Details of the trade were still being worked out, according to one of the sources, who emphasized that it had yet to be completed. The Magic apparently have decided to wait until the last minute before Thursday's trade deadline to see if any better offers come up. If the trade goes through, it would represent yet another high-profile acquisition for Knicks president Isiah Thomas, who already has added Larry Brown, Quentin Richardson, Eddy Curry and Jalen Rose this season alone. The 6-foot-3 Francis has averaged 19.4 points, 6.0 rebounds and 6.4 assists over his seven-year NBA career. He would join Stephon Marbury to form a backcourt with a combined five All-Star appearances. The Knicks apparently are ready to send three players, including two regular members of the rotation, to Orlando in the deal. Neither team's officials will comment on any ongoing trade talks, but it is likely Jamal Crawford and Maurice Taylor would be included. The Magic are in a rebuilding mode, and the 6-5 Crawford is considered an intriguing young talent who would be able to step in and help fill the team's hole at shooting guard. Taylor would likely be included to help make the salaries match Francis' $13.7 million a year. Francis, who was traded from Houston to Orlando last season as part of the Tracy McGrady deal, has been unhappy with his role this season under new Magic coach Brian Hill. Last month he refused to re-enter a game late in a blowout loss at Seattle, and was suspended two games. He later apologized, but the Magic soon after decided to listen to offers for a possible trade. Francis, who celebrates his 29th birthday Tuesday, might welcome a change of scenery. He clearly has looked frustrated this season, and heads into the post All-Star break averaging career-lows in points (16.3) rebounds (4.8), assists (5.7) and three-point shooting (25.7 percent). He recently came out and admitted his play had become affected by constant trade rumors. As of last week, the Nuggets were considered the front-runner to acquire Francis in a trade. But Denver reportedly was leery of picking up the remainder of his contract (three years, $49 million). The Knicks, already owners of the league's highest payroll, have no such concerns. http://realgm.com/src_wiretap_archives/392..._francis_trade/
This article mentions how unhappy and frustrated Steve Francis is. However, didn't he just go on record saying he doesn't want to be traded and wants to stay in Orlando?
I was thinking the same thing when I read it I guess Orlando isn't interested in what Francis thinks.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Chuck:</div><div class="quote_post">Mo Taylors contract better be expiring if we're taking it on. God, I hate this trade.</div> I agree, this is a terrible deal for the Magic. Mo Taylor is signed through next season and Crawford has 5 more years left on his deal. Essentially this becomes Francis for Crawford plus some cap space. Even if the Magic are not happy with Francis and vice versa, you don't just give him away. They should demand one of NY's 1st round picks for next year or someone like David Lee. The 3rd player is rumored to be Trevor Ariza, but he would need to be re-signed and I don't see him fitting in Orlando. It's close to a guarantee Crawford isn't going to work in Orlando. He refuses to play defense and is going to take shots away from Howard. Also why would the Magic want to potentially help out the Knicks? If Marbury & Francis get along, the Knicks could turn around very fast. They would have one of the most explosive backcourts in the league. And Larry Brown is one of the few coaches who could pull it off and get these two players to see the BIG PICTURE. The upside of those two are far greater than anything Jamal Crawford is going to do for you.
I actually like Crawford his Defense lacks but offense is nice at times plus he can hit the 3. Mo Taylor? why we just got Darko and he didnt get minutes today, unless Pat goes then Mo will be warming Kusuns seat for the 3 minutes hes not in foul trouble. I like the Crawford/Ariza trade plus another player, Francis is playing like crap and Ariza seems to be friends of Dwight so a nice Sf for the future Sign him up.
Here's my little theory: If Crawford is dealt, expect Nate Robinson to be the next to go. Larry Brown doesn't like coaching the youngsters anyway, so without his hometown buddy to play with there'd be nothing for Nate to stay for. Other than the paycheck, that is.
I hope this deal doesn't go through Crawford is the same type of player as Dooling But with far less Defense and a little more range (streaky range) I think we can get more for Francis than this.
I've heard a couple of rumors. Crawford, Taylor, and Ariza for Francis and Garrity is the most recent one that I've heard. If Smith can get rid of Garrity/Dooling and bring in Lee, I will like this deal.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting NYCfinest123:</div><div class="quote_post">francis leaving means jameer a full time starter, it sounds good to me</div> Jameer is injured and might need surgery to repair the cartiledge damage in his foot.
