New York Knicks Receive: F Jae Crowder, F/C Dario Saric, 2024 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – PHO) 

Phoenix Suns Receive: F Julius Randle 

Realistically, fit generally boils down to two abilities: three-point shooting, and defense. 

Offensively, a player’s ability to space the floor will often determine their ability to fit with other players. Essentially, if a player has off-ball value, he can play with on-ball players. Conversely, a player who can’t shoot, in the modern NBA, can’t play with another player who can’t shoot. Simple, right? 

The same principle applies to defense. Generally, a modern NBA can afford one weak link in their starting lineup on that end of the floor. In other words, two weak defenders won’t normally be able to hold a prominent role each on a contending team. 

By that logic, Jae Crowder is a skeleton key. He’s not the most skilled player in the NBA, but he can shoot, and he can defend.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Julius Randle, New York Knicks & Phoenix Suns Updates

By contrast, Julius Randle’s three-point shot is inconsistent, but when it isn’t dropping,  he’s not an easy player to fit into a broader offensive concept. 

Should the Suns really acquire such a player?