Knicks Trade Rumors: Five Reasons To Pursue Paul Millsap

Knicks’ Defensive Woes

If the New York Knicks’ offensive inconsistencies weren’t concerning enough, the defense has been atrocious. There’s been minimal resistance from perimeter defenders, horrific play against the pick and roll, and a generally poor level of play against the 3-point shot.

If the Knicks aren’t going to improve the defense from within, then trading for a player of Paul Millsap’s caliber could be the answer.

New York ranks No. 25 in the NBA in both points allowed per game and points allowed per 100 possessions. The Knicks are 5-0 when they allow fewer than 100 points and 11-17 when they fail to hold opponents below that number.

It’s also worth noting that the Knicks are 12-4 when opponents score fewer than 105 points and are 4-13 when they allow more than 105 points.

Having established this as true, it’s only fair for the Knicks to consider pursuing a player who can stabilize the defense. There have been recent signs of improvement, but there’s still clear work to be done.

Trading for a player of Millsap’s caliber won’t be easy, but he’s firmly established himself as one of the premier defenders in the NBA.