Knicks Trade Rumors: Pros, Cons Of Targeting Thabo Sefolosha

2 of 6

Oct 16, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic forward Aaron Gordon (00) controls the ball as Atlanta Hawks forward Thabo Sefolosha (25) defends during the second half at Amway Center. The Hawks won 105-98. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Pro: Perimeter Defense

The New York Knicks are desperate for nothing more than perimeter defense as the trade deadline approaches. The interior has done a respectable job of protecting the rim, but the Knicks continue to allow players to penetrate at virtual will.

A healthy Lance Thomas is a versatile and valuable defender, but Thabo Sefolosha is one of the best on-ball defenders in the NBA.

Sefolosha is No. 2 in the NBA amongst small forwards in Defensive Real Plus-Minus, trailing just Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. Furthermore, the Hawks are allowing 100.9 points per 100 possessions with Sefolosha on the floor and 104.2 when he isn’t.

Sefolosha is also No. 7 in the NBA with an average of 1.85 steals per game and No. 1 in the Association with 3.40 steals per 48 minutes.

Sefolosha elevates the level of defensive intensity from the players around him and accounts for their flaws. He also creates turnovers, which could be invaluable for a Knicks team that struggles to do so on a consistent basis.

For perspective: New York is No. 22 in the NBA in steals per game and No. 29 in points off of turnovers per game. Sefolosha would be an invaluable addition to the defense.

Home/Knicks Rumors