Why The New York Knicks Do The Deal 

Strictly speaking, no: the Knicks do not need Crowder. He’s an invaluable role player, but the Knicks need top-end talent. 

Again, many fans would have them pursuing it through the draft. To be sure, either Wembenyama or Henderson would change this team’s fortunes – not to mention some of the other talented prospects in this draft. With that being said, the Knicks do not appear interested in landing a young superstar: They want a current one. 

We already know the Knicks chased Donovan Mitchell this summer. They came up short, but rest assured, they’ll be on the hunt for the next star player to hit the trade market.

With that in mind, perhaps the best thing the Knicks can do is remain as competitive as possible. That’ll help them become an appealing destination for free agents. The draft may be the most traditional route toward acquiring talent, but it’s not the only one.

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If the Knicks want to pursue stars through trades and free agency and remain as competitive as they can, this is a good deal for them – Crowder is the most impactful player changing hands here. 

He’ll help the Knicks in their race to the top – even if it means keeping them in the middle, for now.