How This Trade Impacts New York Knicks
The New York Knicks look like a team that could use a shake-up. They have not been able to replicate their success from last season, as their defensive efficiency has plummeted and the offense hasn’t improved enough to compensate for it.
But, their answers could very well be on the team already, as New York would benefit from giving their younger players, such as Quentin Grimes, Miles McBride, and Jericho Sims, some more playing time. This isn’t a deal that the Knicks should even entertain making.
Kemba Walker has cemented himself as the starting point guard once again, winning the player of the week award in the Eastern Conference. He has been a man on a mission and with Derrick Rose sidelined because of ankle surgery, he will be an integral part of the team’s rotation going forward.
Obi Toppin may never see the expanded role people want him to have as long as he is behind Julius Randle, but he is making the most of his chances. He is key to the team’s second unit.
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Kevin Knox II is someone the team has been open to trading previously, and could still be moved eventually, but has proven he is a worthy depth piece that can produce in a pinch.
The Knicks have done a good job acquiring draft capital, so they can afford to move a draft pick or two in a deal. But, they are not a lock for the playoffs this season, so unless it is a player that moves the needle a ton, it is fair to question if they should be dealing picks.
Jerami Grant is a good player, but it is fair to question if he would push the Knicks over the top. Grant is also currently sidelined with an injury, so he wouldn’t help the team for the next few weeks.
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Trading away that much capital for a player that has never made an All-Star team and whose best position is where Randle is entrenched could complicate matters more.