The New York Knicks could use a little more firepower in the attack and, with continued interest ahead of the March 27 negotiation deadline, a deal could occur at any time. The head coach, Tom Thibodeau, likes the current team, simply based on his incredible defensive feats. The Knicks currently have the number one defense in the NBA in points allowed per game with 104.9. Immediately behind them are the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat.
With a good defense, the Knicks remain competitive in most fights, but the lack of attack sometimes hurts them. Bringing a few more solid pieces into this category can push you to the limit, especially against some teams of the caliber of the playoffs. The Knicks most recently lost two consecutive games to the Nets and the 76ers, two teams destined for the playoffs. Losing five points to the Nets and three points to the 76ers was disappointing, but it proved that New York has everything it takes to stay competitive against winning teams.
Let’s take a look at a deal that would send Lonzo Ball and a sniper to the Knicks, providing them with some support.
Simulated trade between Knicks and Pelicans, proposed by B / Rs Greg Swartz:
Knicks receive:
Lonzo Ball
JJ Redick
Pelicans receive:
Kevin Knox, Frank Ntilikina
Elfrid Payton
Choice of the first round of 2021 (via Dal)
2021 choice of the second round (via Det)
This is an intriguing simulated exchange, as Ball averages 14.2 points in 31.7 minutes per game. He also has an average of 5.6 assists and 1.3 steals this season. He would immediately become the most productive owner of the team, with Derrick Rose close behind. The problem is that the Knicks will have to part ways with Frank Ntilikina, their defensive gem, which does not offer much support in the attack, but is a solid reinforcement that can hold a team’s top scorer.
Loop in the first and second round of choices, plus Kevin Knox and Elfrid Payton, from New York, leaves with Ball and JJ Redick, who have an average of only 8.7 points at 36. He’s going through a low season, but he has a family in Brooklyn and would probably rejuvenate if he moved to New York.
Personally, I am not a fan of this trade, simply based on the fact that JJ Redick is too old to trust consistently, and Ball averages just 14.2 points per game. However, you can justify based on Lonzo’s potential, since at 23 he is just scratching the surface of his skills.
If the Knicks like Ball so much, this is a solid business that makes them a point guard ready to take a big leap in development. With great coaching, I believe they can unlock his potential, but they would have to give up a good bid in the process.