Former Duke basketball teammates reuniting in Big Apple

(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

A couple of former Duke basketball one-and-dones are teammates once again.

The rumors had been swirling for a bit, but Cam Reddish is finally making his way out of Atlanta and will be a member of the New York Knicks (21-21). Not only does this give the 22-year-old a fresh start, but it also reunites him with former Duke basketball teammate RJ Barrett.

The trade details include the Atlanta Hawks (17-23) sending Cam Reddish, Solomon Hill, and a 2025 second-round pick to New York for Kevin Knox and a 2022 protected first-round pick.

A win for all, including Duke basketball enthusiasts

Thursday’s trade works out to be a win-win for both teams.

Atlanta had a log jam at the forward position, and Cam Reddish’s skill set didn’t suit their plan going forward. The Hawks had to decide who to pay between Reddish and De’Andre Hunter, and this trade solidified Hunter as their answer.

Meanwhile, the Knicks get a talented young NBA Blue Devil who has one of the highest ceilings out of any prospect currently in the league. Duke supporters know just how good Reddish can be when he is clicking, like when the 6-foot-8, 220-pound forward lit up Louisville for 22 points in a historic 23-point comeback on the road in 2019.

Cam Reddish is averaging a career-low in minutes this season, resulting in his productivity taking a dip. However, he has shown glimpses of his potential, scoring 30 or more twice this season, eclipsing his total from his first two seasons. His defense has also improved drastically from his rookie season as he has molded himself into a respectable two-way player.

Many Blue Devil fans reminisce on the 2018-19 college season due to the number of thrilling roster pieces. That infamous “Big Three” of Cam Reddish, RJ Barrett, and Zion Williamson is now two-thirds of the way reunited, making the New York Knicks must-watch TV for any Dukie.