Why The New York Knicks Do The Deal 

If anything, this deal runs counter to what the Knicks have been doing in recent years. That doesn’t mean it’s the right move – sometimes, you have to pivot. 

Specifically, the Knicks have been hoarding first-round picks, not sending them out. On the flip side, they can afford to part with one. After all, they’ve been hoarding them. 

At this point, putting a respectable product on the floor may be more beneficial for New York than anything else.

After all, the Knicks may be angling to trade for a star, but free agency is a viable pool of talent as well. By improving in the short term, they can make themselves a more appealing destination. 

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Acquiring Kuzma helps them do so. Realistically, he’s the best player in this trade by 2022. Kuzma has developed into a strong two-way wing. He’s a good slasher and cutter who can knock down triples as well. If the Knicks want to make short-term gains, he’s a good target for them.

Should the Wizards part with such a player?