Why The New York Knicks Do The Deal

This is a risky move for the New York Knicks. They’re giving up their first offensive option in return for a player who may never be suited for that role

It’s still worth their time. Ayton still has the potential to be a defensive anchor, and an elite secondary offensive option to boot. If nothing else, he can be one of the best pick-and-roll finishers in the NBA. The Knicks get a foundational piece with this deal.

Suddenly, they’ll have a strong young core between Ayton, RJ Barrett, Obi Toppin, and Cam Reddish. They may be a star acquisition away from building a contender following this trade.

That acquisition could come in free agency. Alternatively, the Knicks will still have a deep asset base to broker a big-time trade following this deal. They’ve got ample draft capital moving forward and plenty of veterans on contract-matching deals.

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Once they do orchestrate that big trade, they’ll be happy to have Ayton alongside their new superstar.