
The New York Knicks could use a bit more firepower on offense, and with continued interest ahead of the March 27 trade deadline, a deal could occur at any moment. Head coach Tom Thibodeau likes his current squad, simply based on their incredible defensive prowess. The Knicks currently have the number one ranked defense in the NBA in points allowed per game with 104.9. Immediately behind them is the Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat.
With good defense, the Knicks remain competitive in most contests, but their lack of offense has hurt them at times. Bringing in a few more solid pieces in that category could push them over the edge, especially against some playoff-caliber teams. The Knicks most recently lost two consecutive games to the Nets and 76ers, two playoff-bound squads. Losing by five points to the Nets and three points of the 76ers was disappointing, but it proved that New York has what it takes to remain competitive against winning teams.
Let’s take a look at a deal that would send Lonzo Ball and a sharpshooter to the Knicks, providing them with some support.
Mock trade between the Knicks and Pelicans, proposed by B/Rs Greg Swartz:
Knicks receive:
Lonzo Ball
JJ Redick
Pelicans Get:
Kevin Knox, Frank Ntilikina
Elfrid Payton
2021 first-round pick (via Dal)
2021 second-round pick (via Det)
This is an intriguing mock trade, as Ball is averaging 14.2 points over 31.7 minutes per game. He’s also averaging 5.6 assists, and 1.3 steals this season. He would immediately become the most offensively productive point guard on the team, with Derrick Rose close behind. The problem is, the Knicks will have to part with Frank Ntilikina, their defensive gem, who doesn’t offer much support on offense but is a solid backup who can hold a team’s top scorer down.