Knicks: Why Lonzo Ball is the perfect trade target for New York

Is Lonzo Ball the lead guard answer for the New York Knicks?

After watching another offseason pass without adding a star player, the New York Knicks are clearly focused on the 2021 NBA Draft. Much to the chagrin of some fans, this means another season with a mediocre on-court product.

Now that the free agency market has been exhausted, the franchise’s only path toward adding a talent boost would come through the trade market. While the Knicks were once rumored to be contenders for All-Star caliber players like Russell Westbrook, DeMar DeRozan, and John Wall, there is one more interesting name that should be up for consideration: New Orleans Pelicans’ point guard Lonzo Ball.

He is the perfect age for New York’s rebuild timeline. The 23-year-old can be a complement to the rest of a budding Knick’ roster. If the franchise’s intention is indeed to punt on the 2021 season in search of a top draft pick, Lonzo would fit perfectly into their plans.

Unlike an established veteran, Ball would fit in the same development window as the rest of the Knick’s core. If things went well, he would fit right alongside Barrett (20), Robinson (22), and Toppin (22) far beyond 2021.

Additionally, Ball’s contract, which includes a team option for 2021-2022, could come off the books as early as the end 2021 season. If he meshed well with the Knicks young building blocks, he could be retained. If he does not, or if the Knicks are in a position to draft a star point guard next offseason, he could be used as a single-season attention builder.

Let’s discuss in more detail why the Knicks would be prudent to trade for Lonzo Ball.