Charlotte Hornets Receive: C Nerlens Noel, 2023 First-Round Pick (Top 10 Protected)

New York Knicks Receive: F Kelly Oubre Jr.

The Charlotte Hornets are desperate for a center. Could the New York Knicks exploit that desperation?

Nerlens Noel would do wonders for their porous defense. He’s a high-end rim protector who is also capable of defending in space. He would fill a massive hole for this Charlotte Hornets team.

Oubre Jr. would be closer to a luxury for the Knicks. That doesn’t mean he wouldn’t be invaluable. While his 34.5% accuracy from downtown could stand to improve, it’s still a passable mark. Meanwhile, the athletic Oubre Jr would improve this team’s transition attack and perimeter defense.

They’ll miss Noel, but he won’t be irreplaceable. This deal could provide the Knicks with the necessary incentive to retain pending free agent Mitchell Robinson. Adding Oubre Jr gives them better floor balance.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Dream Offseason Trade Targets For New York Knicks

It’s also just a pure talent upgrade from Noel. If the Knicks think this season was an exception to a rule that will make them successful next year, adding Oubre Jr. is a solid decision that could help them make their case.