Knicks Trade Rumors: Five Reasons To Pursue P.J. Tucker

The New York Knicks are reportedly interested in trading for Phoenix Suns small forward P.J. Tucker. What would be the benefits of such a move?

The New York Knicks have won two NBA championships and made eight NBA Finals appearances. Between the all-time greatness of Red Holzman’s teams in the 1970s and the consistency of the Patrick Ewing Knicks in the 1990s, one strength was constant: defense.

As Jeff Hornacek and Phil Jackson attempt to build a contender in New York, a harsh reality has surfaced: that glorious identity has been lost.

Hornacek recently blasted the Knicks following a 115-103 home loss to the Orlando Magic. He questioned if New York has the talent to defend at a high level and claimed he needs to find someone who can.

According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, the Knicks may attempt to address those issues with a trade for small forward P.J. Tucker.

"It doesn’t seem as if any move is imminent, but some members of the Knicks’ front office have labeled Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker as a potential trade target, league sources told ESPN.com."

Begley stresses that nothing is imminent, but acquiring Tucker would effectively address New York’s biggest need: improved defense.

The 1970 and 1973 champion Knicks embraced two critical philosophies: selflessness on offense and consistency on defense. Jackson was a player for those legendary teams, which gives him first-hand knowledge of how crucial selflessness and defense are to team success.

The 11 championship teams that Jackson coached were built with similar philosophies.

New York currently ranks outside of the Top 25 in both points allowed per game and points allowed per 100 possessions. Talent doesn’t seem to be the issue, but performance and consistency undoubtedly have been.

The question is: why are the Knicks considering a trade for Tucker and how would he fit?