New York Knicks Receive: F Harrison Barnes, 2022 First-Round Pick (No. 4 – SAC)
Sacramento Kings Receive: F Julius Randle, 2022 First-Round Pick (No. 11 – NYK)
The first step in exploring the merits of this trade involves assessing the fit with Julius Randle on the Sacramento Kings.
Frankly, it’s not great. Domantas Sabonis is a non-spacing, defensively challenged big man. He’s earned his star reputation due to his outstanding low block scoring and passing. He’s a remarkable talent, but he’s not suited to play with just anyone.
He may not be suited to play with Randle. Offensively, it’ll depend on whether the Kings acquire the 2020-21 version of Randle or the 2021-22 version. The former was an elite floor spacer, which should make him a nice pairing with Sabonis. The latter was one of the worst volume shooters in the NBA.
Either way, the defensive fit ought to be a mess. Randle has his own shortcomings on that end. Still, the combined talent of the two alone ought to at least put them in playoff contention. That may be the Kings’ only priority.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: 2 Trade Packages To Send New York Knicks Star Julius Randle To Sacramento Kings
On the other hand, if Sacramento felt this was too high of a price to pay for Randle, that would be reasonable. They may find the next deal more appealing.
