Knicks Trade Rumors: Five Reasons To Pursue Maurice Harkless

3. Offensive Versatility

Maurice Harkless may not be elite in any one area, but he’s a well-rounded and versatile offensive player. He proved that, to some extent, by averaging 12.5 points per 36 minutes on a slash line of .503/.351/.621 in 2016-17.

Beyond the numbers, Harkless has a generally well-rounded offensive skill set that can be of value within both triangle offense and Jeff Hornacek’s up-tempo system.

Harkless made 68 3-point field goals on 35.1 percent shooting in 2016-17. He took a limited number of midrange jump shots, but managed to convert 41.9 percent of his attempts from the distance that the triangle offense so heavily emphasizes.

On the drive, Harkless is an athletic finisher who can play above the rim, get crafty beneath it, and fight through contact when the interior collapses.

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Harkless’ offensive game is how he’s developed into a respectable post player. He’s not exactly Carmelo Anthony on the low block, but he can hold his own when posted in isolation.

The New York Knicks have proven to covet versatility on the offensive end of the floor, and Harkless checks the boxes in that regard.