The Hypothetical Trade
New York Knicks Receive: G Lonzo Ball (via sign-and-trade), C Jaxson Hayes
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: C Mitchell Robinson
Given how great they are defensively and the fact that they could use a franchise point guard, going after Lonzo Ball makes a whole lot of sense for the Knicks. He is only 23 years old and pairing him with Derrick Rose in the back-court could do wonders for Ball and his career.
Not to mention, the young point guard already has a relationship with the Knicks best player in Julius Randle. The two of them were teammates on the Los Angeles Lakers during the 2017-18 season and already know each other quite well.
READ MORE: NBA Rumors: This Pacers-Pelicans trade sends Myles Turner to New Orleans
Everything about adding Ball makes sense for the Knicks, which is why a sign-and-trade could likely be executed should Ball want to play in Madison Square Garden. With Taj Gibson and Nerlens Noel shining in the front-court for the Knicks this season with Mitchell Robinson being out with numerous injuries, the Pelicans could use this opportunity to potentially add Robinson to their roster.
The 23-year-old center is entering the final year of his rookie deal and could definitely be an athletic center that the Pelicans could build with for years to come. Given that they would be receiving Jaxson Hayes and likely re-sign both Gibson and Noel in the offseason, New York would probably be alright with dealing away Robinson in this trade for Ball.
Overall, there is definitely value to be had for both teams in this offseason trade proposal, but does this trade truly make sense for both the New York Knicks and the New Orleans Pelicans? Let’s take a closer look.
