New York Knicks: Five Reasons Kristaps Porzingis Shouldn’t Be Traded

1. The Future Is Now

In less than two months, the New York Knicks will have an opportunity to build a sustainable future with just one move. The Knicks will have a Top 10 selection in the 2017 NBA Draft, and will thus have a chance to find a third legitimate building block.

With Kristaps Porzingis and Willy Hernangomez anchoring the interior, New York is one wise draft pick away from having its core three players to build around.

If the Knicks draft well in June, then Phil Jackson will have found an ideal perimeter complement to Porzingis and Hernangomez. Said player would not only be able to play off of those skilled big men as a scorer, but help create more effective and efficient offense for them.

With three young players to build around, the Knicks could provide fans, executives, coaches, and players with something rare: an idea as to what the future holds.

Say what you will about Jackson’s handling of the Carmelo Anthony fiasco, but he’s in possession of every one of his first-round draft picks from hereon out. Considering the Knicks’ track record in that regard, that alone is a reason to believe the future could be brighter than in previous eras.

Although it may be appealing to some to trade Porzingis for improved draft positioning or a more established talent, complementing him may be the wiser course of action.

Must Read: The type of players Phil Jackson should target

For the first time since Patrick Ewing was drafted in 1985, the New York Knicks have an under-25 star with franchise player potential.

Abandoning Kristaps Porzingis after two promising seasons would be a disastrous mistake.