Why The New York Knicks Do The Deal 

If 2022-23 disappointed the New Orleans Pelicans, it was a rousing success for the New York Knicks. This team advanced to the second round of the NBA playoffs. That was a deeper run than anybody expected. Now, the Knicks should try to build on that success. 

Why not replace RJ Barrett with a more proven contributor? Brandon Ingram is a star. This is a player who can create his own shot while offering some playmaking and defense. Are the Knicks paying a hefty price for him? Absolutely. Doing so has a strong case, though.

Ingram is a highly talented scorer and an offensive player with many skills. In addition to creating his shot from short/mid-range, he can drive to the basket and shoot from outside. He’s improved immensely as a pull-up shooting threat from a distance and has sharpened his off-the-catch skills.

Still, this deal gives them one of the more talented cores in the Eastern Conference. If all goes well, they’ll avoid draft-day rumors for the foreseeable future. Remember, Jalen Brunson has shown to be a dynamic postseason player two years in a row. He didn’t have reliable help this time around.

NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans & New York Knicks Updates

With Ingram as a secondary scoring threat in the offense, perhaps Brunson would have the necessary tools he needs to lead the Knicks even further in the postseason next go around. Granted, the team would need to be comfortable taking the risk given his lack of consistent availability.