Knicks Trade Rumors: Pros and Cons of potentially trading for Eric Bledsoe

PHOENIX, AZ - FEBRUARY 13: Eric Bledsoe #2 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball during the second half of the NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Talking Stick Resort Arena on February 13, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Pelicans defeated the Suns 110-108. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ - FEBRUARY 13: Eric Bledsoe #2 of the Phoenix Suns handles the ball during the second half of the NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Talking Stick Resort Arena on February 13, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Pelicans defeated the Suns 110-108. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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PHOENIX, AZ – FEBRUARY 13: Eric Bledsoe #2 of the Phoenix Suns warms up before the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on February 13, 2017 at U.S. Airways Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ – FEBRUARY 13: Eric Bledsoe #2 of the Phoenix Suns warms up before the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on February 13, 2017 at U.S. Airways Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Pro: Offensive Versatility

Eric Bledsoe’s ability to drive the lane has been acknowledged, but it’s not the only aspect of his game that makes him special. On the offensive end of the floor, Bledsoe has developed into one of the most well-rounded point guards in the NBA.

With the right surroundings, Bledsoe could be a more athletic version of Kyle Lowry for the New York Knicks—a statement made with Lowry’s star status in mind.

Bledsoe has career averages of 17.4 points, 6.1 assists, 5.0 rebounds, 1.1 offensive rebounds, and 1.1 3-point field goals made per game. Those numbers display his unique ability to drive the lane, facilitate, space the floor, and crash the offensive glass at average to above-average levels.

With an elite skill in his proficiency on the drive, Bledsoe’s ability to contribute solid numbers in virtually every other area is undeniably appealing.

Beyond the numbers, Bledsoe has the ability to work the pick and roll, push the pace in transition, and work without the ball. That combination of traits would be welcome in any system, namely one that Bledsoe has already successfully played in—a point that will be discussed.

The Knicks have a desperate need for quality production at the point guard position, and Bledsoe would provide it in spades.