How This Trade Impacts New York Knicks
There were some New York Knicks fans disappointed by how the offseason went. They wanted to see the team make a transaction that would move the needle for the team. While CJ McCollum has yet to make an All-Star game in his career, this would be a pretty big move for the team to make.
McCollum would give New York a bonafide scorer to help carry the load with Julius Randle, RJ Barrett and Kemba Walker in the starting five. The Knicks lacked an explosive option like this from the perimeter last season, which was ultimately their demise in the postseason against the Atlanta Hawks.
He could operate as the lead ball-handler for periods as well, giving Tom Thibodeau another option when it comes to initiating the offense. Anything that can help get Randle and Barrett some easier looks the Knicks have to consider.
Cody Zeller won’t be as impactful defensively as Nerlens Noel, but he will offer a little more offensively. Having another big that can do some damage in the pick-and-roll or as a cutter to the basket will open things up for New York on offense as well.
LATEST NBA NEWS: Latest Intel Surrounding Ben Simmons Amid NBA Trade Rumors
There may be some hesitation from Thibodeau to see his backup center leave, especially with the injuries Mitchell Robinson suffered from last season.
Kevin Knox is used to matching salary as the Knicks have been trying to move him for a while now. The team potentially has another first-round pick coming their way in 2022 via the Charlotte Hornets, so parting ways with them won’t hurt too much.
LATEST NBA NEWS: Latest Intel Surrounding Ben Simmons Amid NBA Trade Rumors
Trading away Evan Fournier and Noel so quickly after signing could be a bad look for the Knicks for future negotiations, but McCollum would certainly be a nice upgrade for the team. How does Portland feel about this swap? Let’s take a look.
