Knicks Trade Rumors: Pros and cons of trading for Kemba Walker

Pro: Fitting The System

Jeff Hornacek’s offensive system doesn’t quite run as it should without a penetrating playmaker. That was firmly displayed by the effectiveness of the offensive system that he ran with Eric Bledsoe, Goran Dragic, and the Phoenix Suns.

If Hornacek is given the opportunity to build his system around a combination of Kristaps Porzingis and Kemba Walker, it should run circles around his Phoenix team.

In Phoenix, Hornacek’s system was often initiated by either Bledsoe or Dragic creating penetration off of high screens. From there, players were enabled to utilize off-ball screens to find openings along the perimeter and baseline.

By adding Walker to the mix, the Knicks would have an elite ball handler and finisher to provide the missing dynamic on offense—an addition that would change the system in its entirety.

One of the reasons it’s been so difficult to evaluate Hornacek is the fact that his system is missing the type of player that it most desperately needs. Without a player who can create consistent penetration, the offense itself can’t be initiated in its proper form.

With Walker starting at point guard, the Knicks would be able to see how effective the offensive system truly can or can’t be.

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The New York Knicks will have an opportunity to negotiate a Kemba Walker trade with the Charlotte Hornets. The question is: Would the reward outweigh the risk?