Knicks Trade Rumors: Evaluating Realistic Trade Options

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Nov 21, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Tony Allen (9) goes up for a shot against Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker (15) in the first half at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Tony Allen, Memphis Grizzlies

Position: Shooting Guard
Age: 34 (1/11/1982)
Experience: 13th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .480/.250/.672
2016-17 Season Averages: 27.9 MPG, 10.1 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 2.5 ORPG, 1.0 APG, 1.8 SPG

The New York Knicks have two critical flaws: perimeter defense and defensive rebounding. Developing the big men on the roster could result in improvement in the latter area, but it would behoove New York to trade for a lockdown defender.

So long as the asking price is reasonable, the Knicks could find that player in the form of available Memphis Grizzlies shooting guard Tony Allen.

Allen is a three-time All-Defensive Team First Team honoree and a two-time All-Defensive Second Team selection. He’s one of the most dominant perimeter defenders of his era and remains one of the few lockdown players remaining in the NBA.

If the Knicks were to acquire Allen for a reasonable price, they’d solidify the defense by adding a player whose effort will go unquestioned.

It’s worth noting that Allen is averaging 2.5 offensive rebounds in just 27. 9 minutes. Thus, while he may not be the offensive player that New York needs, his value as a defender and rebounder would be nothing short of immense.

Allen is 34 years old and on an expiring contract, which means this all comes down to a matter of making the proper exchange of talent for talent.

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