3. Kevin Knox
Like Davis, Kevin Knox is a Kentucky product, although not held in the same regard upon entering their respective drafts. With a six-year difference between their classes, could they be part of the same trade?
This is the New York Knicks’ most valuable young asset that’s healthy. At 6-foot-9, he’s an intriguing scorer who’s still learning how to attack defenses and someone this team can build around.
Unfortunately for the Knicks, that makes Knox more intriguing for a Pelicans trade.
The 19-year-old can either lead a deal or become a secondary piece that goes to New Orleans. He’s proven the ability to score 20 and even 30 points in a game, when his shot falls. It’s still inconsistent, but the Knicks can let him develop steadily and as one of their main players.
Defense still lacks in Knox’s game. Maybe that gives New York comfortability including him for Davis, but it also removes one of their few players that can score from the perimeter.
Knox could average 20 points per game down the line, but that’s a gamble to predict. Rookies have flamed out before, including with the Knicks, though he’d receive every chance to shine with the Pelicans.
Trading Knox is arguably riskier than Ntilikina or Robinson, and he’s potentially more significant towards this franchise’s future, although that provides more value towards acquiring Davis. This may be an unquestioned piece towards a trade, unless New Orleans values the aforementioned players more.