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Knicks Trade Rumors: Defensive-Minded Options As Deadline Nears

By Maxwell Ogden

Nov 27, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Wilson Chandler (21) controls the ball against Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Nuggets defeated the Suns 118-114. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Wilson Chandler (21) controls the ball against Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Nuggets defeated the Suns 118-114. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 3, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic forward Serge Ibaka (7) celebrates after scoring during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Toronto Raptors at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 3, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic forward Serge Ibaka (7) celebrates after scoring during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game against the Toronto Raptors at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

Serge Ibaka, Orlando Magic

Position: Power Forward
Age: 27 (9/18/1989)
Experience: 8th Season
2016-17 Slash Line: .485/.387/.843
2016-17 Season Averages: 30.7 MPG, 15.2 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 1.7 ORPG, 1.1 APG, 1.6 BPG, 1.5 3PM

Unrealistic? Perhaps, but the New York Knicks need defense, the Orlando Magic need offense, and neither side knows whether or not either Derrick Rose or Serge Ibaka will be willing to re-sign for a reasonable price in 2017.

If the Magic determine that a combination of Bismack Biyombo and Nikola Vucevic makes more sense, then dealing Ibaka for Rose and Lance Thomas could be ideal for both teams.

Ibaka being available undoubtedly improves the odds of such a trade occurring.

Acquiring Ibaka is a long-shot, but it would be the ultimate deal for the Knicks. Ibaka could play the 4 or the 5, thus anchoring the defense by protecting the rim and alleviating pressure from Kristaps Porzingis by defending stronger players in the post.

There may be a hurdle in the form of Ibaka and Porzingis’ rebounding woes, but it would be nearly impossible for teams to successfully drive the lane.

Ibaka could help on offense, as well, with a smooth midrange jump shot and range beyond the 3-point line. If given a fair number of touches on the offensive end of the floor, Ibaka would be able to provide a significant boost to New York’s defense.

If the Knicks are going to turn this season around, then the fastest way to do so would be to acquire Ibaka via a high-profile trade.

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