By Brian Mahoney, Ap
Published: 07:37 GMT, 1 February 2019 | Updated: 07:37 GMT, 1 February 2019
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Kristaps Porzingis won't be rejoining the New York Knicks once his torn knee ligament heals in a sensational gamble.
Instead, he's on his way to Dallas after a surprising trade the Knicks say the All-Star forward requested Thursday.
The Knicks dealt Porzingis to the Mavericks in a seven-player swap that also netted New York two future first-round draft picks and possibly enough room to afford two top free agents this summer.
Kristaps Porzingis won't be rejoining the New York Knicks when his torn ACL heals
Instead he's on his way to Dallas Mavericks after a surprising trade sealed on Thursday
'As is standard for this time of year, we were exploring various options on potential trades,' Knicks general manager Scott Perry said in a statement.
'Considering the uncertainty regarding Kristaps' free agent status and his request today to be traded, we made a trade that we are confident improves the franchise.'
Porzingis has been sidelined for nearly a year after tearing his left ACL. The Knicks said recently he would undergo testing during the middle of February that could have determined if he would be able to return this season.
If it does, it will be in Dallas, where he can form an intriguing international frontcourt with rookie Luka Doncic. Both played professionally in Spain before coming to the NBA as top-five picks.
The Knicks acquired Dennis Smith Jr, DeAndre Jordan, Wesley
