How This Trade Impacts New York Knicks
The New York Knicks have been biding their time, waiting to turn the assets they have compiled into an All-Star player. They finally pull the trigger on a deal that lands them Donovan Mitchell from the Utah Jazz.
There will be some questions about how Mitchell will fit in a backcourt with the recently signed Jalen Brunson, which is valid. Both are a bit undersized to be paired together in the backcourt, which could cause some problems defensively. However, if there is anyone that can overcome some deficiencies on that end of the court with a strong game plan it is Tom Thibodeau.
Mitchell provides the Knicks with that star player that they have craved. With him in the fold, everyone else can fall into roles that fit them better. He will be the engine that makes the offense go, but there will be plenty of help from Brunson, RJ Barrett and Julius Randle.
Retaining Barrett is key and if it costs more first-round picks to ensure he remains in New York, they should do it. The hope is that he continues ascending and becomes that second All-Star to help lead the team to contention.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Knicks, Jazz Talk Donovan Mitchell Trade As Utah Nears Rebuild
Right now they are parting ways with six, when combined with Cam Reddish and Obi Toppin, could be enough to get a deal done.
In addition to Mitchell, the Knicks are landing Cedi Osman from the Cleveland Cavaliers. He will help bolster a wing rotation that is depleted with Reddish on his way to Utah and Alec Burks being sent to the Detroit Pistons earlier in the offseason.
LATEST NBA NEWS AND TRADE RUMORS: Knicks, Jazz Talk Donovan Mitchell Trade As Utah Nears Rebuild
Arguably the biggest takeaway from this deal for the Knicks is that they still have some assets. Should another All-Star player come available, they have the pieces to potentially swing another deal and break into the ranks of true contenders.
