NBA Rumors: Given COVID Dilemma, Knicks Would Be Foolish To Let Walker Walk

The New York Knicks would be foolish to sit Kemba Walker at this stage of the season, especially with multiple teams scampering to sign “replacement” players with regulars being held out due to the NBA’s health and safety protocols.

Hence, it is more about Walker’s scoring splurge against the Boston Celtics where he dropped 29 points in 37 minutes of play. It is all about being practical since there is no telling who among the Knicks players may find themselves forced out due to the growing COVID threat.

But as far as the 31-year-old is concerned, there is no denying that he and Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau no longer see eye-to-eye. After being benched for several games, Walker did not mince words that he was pretty unhappy being relegated to the bench, ESPN reported.

"I hate it," Walker stated about being out of the lineup. "I want to play... I do feel like I have a lot to give still."

Walker has had a rough go the past couple of years but knows he is strong enough to weather adversity. Although there are claims that there is no market for him, Walker remains mentally tough that he will get that break and be on a team where he is truly appreciated.

"I'm so mentally tough, I feel like I'm built for any situation, and I'm going to handle it the best I can," Walker quipped. "I've got a great support system, great family, great friends who help me stay humble and stay grounded, and that's what I'm going to continue to do. Just try to be unbreakable and continue to put my work in and just stay ready for anything that comes my way."

For now, the Knicks may have no other choice but to field in Walker. It is something that Thibodeau and the Knicks have to deal with rather than hook up with some free agents.

Depending on how long the league can survive the growing number of players being placed on health and safety protocols. It will be interesting if Walker stays in New York before the NBA trade deadline in February. That is unless the league tweaks it as well as the Omicron variant continues to leave big problems to all kinds of sporting events.