Basketball: Suns-Knicks deal in the works for Q?

The Phoenix Suns and New York Knicks are in serious talks about a trade that would send Quentin Richardson and a conditional future first-round pick to the Knicks for Kurt Thomas two league sources said.

However, both sources claim that the trade hasn't been completed.

The trade, if it is consummated, would be a good one for both teams. Thomas can provide the Suns more toughness in the paint. He also can play center, allowing the Suns to move Amare Stoudemire back to his natural position at the four. The deal would also clear some cap space, long term, for the Suns, who must re-sign Joe Johnson this summer.

The Knicks have a log jam at the four and have been trying to move Thomas for a month. Richardson will be a good fit in the Knicks offense. He'd give Stephon Marbury a good shooter to kick it to on penetration. He'd also give the Knicks a swing man who can post up and rebound.

credit: ESPN

This sounds like a good idea to me. Q's a great shot but the Suns have plenty of scoring options. Thomas gives them a tough presence in the post, makes them tougher defensively and allows Amare to play at the 4. For the Knicks, they've been wanting to get rid of him forever so to get a player as good as Q in return is a bonus.