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New York Knicks: Players Phil Jackson Needs to Trade For

By Maxwell Ogden

Dec 16, 2015; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks general manager Phil Jackson looks on during a stop in play against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the first half of an NBA basketball game at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 16, 2015; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks general manager Phil Jackson looks on during a stop in play against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the first half of an NBA basketball game at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 2, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Ben McLemore (23) during warmups before the game against the Phoenix Suns at Sleep Train Arena. Mandatory Credit: Godofredo Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Ben McLemore (23) during warmups before the game against the Phoenix Suns at Sleep Train Arena. Mandatory Credit: Godofredo Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Ben McLemore, Sacramento Kings

Position: Shooting Guard

Age: 23

2015-16 Salary: $3,156,600

Contract Expires: 2017 (Restricted Free Agent)

Slash Line: .451/.372/.732

Season Averages: 21.0 MPG, 7.7 PPG, 2.1 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.9 3PM

The Sacramento Kings are reportedly looking to part ways with shooting guard Marco Belinelli. Belinelli’s financial situation makes New York a non-factor in that regard, but that doesn’t mean Sacramento is without intriguing trade pieces.

It wouldn’t be easy, and it would likely require a hefty trade offer, but Ben McLemore should be on the Knicks’ radar.

McLemore has failed to develop into the perennial All-Star that many projected him to be. He’s also playing for an organization in Sacramento that has a long track record of being incapable of developing talent.

If McLemore were to arrive at an organization with structure and veteran leadership, he could still emerge as the high-caliber contributor he has the potential to be.

The 23-year-old is an explosive leaper and a gifted 3-point shooter with deep range from beyond the arc. He moves well coming off of screens, and finishes through contact on the rare occasion that he’s asked to attack the basket.

McLemore has a number of skills that remain raw, and even his jump shot must improve, but the skill is there for him to emerge as a true force to be reckoned with.

Next: All-Star Point Guard

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