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Knicks Trade Rumors: Realistically available targets to upgrade perimeter

By Maxwell Ogden

DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 9: Evan Fournier #10 of the Orlando Magic handles the ball against the Dallas Mavericks on January 9, 2018 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)
DALLAS, TX - JANUARY 9: Evan Fournier #10 of the Orlando Magic handles the ball against the Dallas Mavericks on January 9, 2018 at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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OAKLAND, CA – DECEMBER 29: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist #14 of the Charlotte Hornets is guarded by Jordan Bell #2 of the Golden State Warriors at ORACLE Arena on December 29, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA – DECEMBER 29: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist #14 of the Charlotte Hornets is guarded by Jordan Bell #2 of the Golden State Warriors at ORACLE Arena on December 29, 2017 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Charlotte Hornets

Position: Small Forward
Age: 24 (9/26/1993)
Experience: Sixth Season
Slash Line: .485/.000/.659
Season Averages: 26.6 MPG, 10.0 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.7 BPG, 0.7 SPG

As previously alluded to, the New York Knicks have a need for an athletic wing who can adequately defend their position. This would be a gamble, but if the Knicks don’t need to give up an essential asset, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist could be the answer.

Kidd-Gilchrist still hasn’t found his niche on the offensive end of the floor, but he’s a plus defender on a reasonable contract—reason enough to be intrigued.

Kidd-Gilchrist has proven to be a capable finisher around the rim and an athletic presence in transition. He’s a non-factor from beyond the arc, but his youth and established defensive value create intriguing long-term value.

According to Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders, the working theory in NBA circles is that Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is a prime candidate to be traded.

"The prevailing thought in NBA circles is the Hornets have to move off a salary, with forward Nic Batum, who can’t seem to get and stay healthy or swingman Michael Kidd-Gilchrist being candidates."

A dynamic offensive talent is more attractive, but adding a defensive-minded wing could help the Knicks improve long-term.

Kidd-Gilchrist ranks No. 10 amongst small forwards who play at least 25.0 minutes per game in Defensive Real Plus-Minus. That’s a fair reflection of the quality defender he’s become, as well as the reason New York should seriously consider acquiring him.

A starting perimeter of Frank Ntilikina, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist would leave something to be desired on offense, but if the price is reasonable, it could address the defensive woes.

Must Read: Well-known players who are reportedly on the trading block

The New York Knicks will have other options as the trade deadline nears, but at this current juncture, these are realistic targets whom the front office should do their homework on.

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