Knicks Trade Rumors: Pros And Cons Of Pursuing Ricky Rubio

Pro: Facilitating

The New York Knicks are 18-14 when they record at least 20 assists and 2-13 when they fail to. Thus, it stands to reason that adding a true facilitator would fit the winning formula and help New York break free of its refusal to move the ball.

However you may feel about Ricky Rubio’s all-around game, he’s averaged at least 8.0 assists per game in five of his past six NBA seasons.

Rubio is a creator; the type of player who will make life easier for every teammate he plays with. It’s understandable to worry about his inability to score with any measure of efficiency, but he elevates the proficiency of those around him.

A generational talent from a facilitating perspective, one can’t help but be intrigued by how well Rubio would play under a head coach like Jeff Hornacek.

Hornacek would likely have Rubio push the pace and create havoc in the open court. Rubio’s decision-making and court vision, as well as his creative passing ability, would inevitably test the limitations of an opposing defense.

Coupled with Rubio’s proficiency as a pick and roll facilitator, the Knicks’ offense would likely flourish with a legitimate facilitator.