New York Knicks: 5 steps for a successful offseason

3) Keep all of their draft picks

After building a reputation for trading away first round picks for essentially nothing, the Knicks have finally made several consecutive lottery selections, dating back to 2017. As of now, it appears they will pick in the lottery again this year, owning the 8th overall pick after another disappointing finish in the standings.

However, things can change leading up to draft night. The Knicks are rumored to be interested in future Hall-of-Fame point guard Chris Paul with some speculating New York could part with their lottery pick in a deal to bring Paul to the Big Apple.

While trading for Paul has merits, including a lottery pick in a deal to absorb his supersized salary seems a bit much, if not crazy.

Leon Rose has spent the offseason building up his scouting and development department. He hired scouting guru Walt Perrin away from Utah. He also added several additional professional scouts to his ranks. Rose made a point to hire assistant coaches under Tom Thibodeau who are known for developing young talent. Additional hires of development staff are expected.

With three selections in the upcoming draft, Rose should trust his new staff to identify the best talent available. Based on a spectacular track history, Walt Perrin should be given as many opportunities as possible to help the Knicks find a draft night steal.

Does this mean the team should close the door on any potential trade involving a 2020 draft pick? No. Perhaps it will make sense to trade within the draft, either up or down. But trust the scouting department. Trust the new development staff. Invest in the draft.