Knicks Trade Rumors: Pros, Cons Of Pursuing Emmanuel Mudiay

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Nov 25, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) and Denver Nuggets guard Emmanuel Mudiay (0) battle for the ball in the third quarter at the Pepsi Center. The Thunder won 132-129. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Pro: Defensive Potential

The New York Knicks need defensive-minded players who can help solidify what’s meant to be a stronger unit. Emmanuel Mudiay is currently a below average defender, but the potential undoubtedly exists for consistently elite execution.

If coached and developed properly, Mudiay could be the defensive stalwart at point guard whom the Knicks need to build a potential contender.

Mudiay is a 6’5″ point guard with a strong 200-pound frame and a tantalizing 6’8.5″ wingspan. He has the size, strength, and length to be a legitimately elite defensive player who creates turnovers, keeps slashers in front of him, and alters jump shots.

Mudiay hasn’t yet realized his defensive potential, but Phil Jackson loves point guards with size and the 20-year-old undeniably fits the bill.

In addition to having size, length, and strength on his side, Mudiay is an explosive leaper with impressive speed in the open court. Though not every elite athlete is an elite defender, the ability and pure upside certainly exists.

If Jeff Hornacek can get him to buy into defending with intensity, the Knicks could have an elite high-low defensive tandem with Mudiay and Kristaps Porzingis.

Must Read: What are the pros and cons of trading for Wilson Chandler?

The question is: should the New York Knicks trade for Emmanuel Mudiay? Hit the comments section and let us know!

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