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

The Blueprint

While Ball would immediately add an infusion of stardom, his on-court presence would mesh with the franchise’s on-court vision. If the plan is indeed to tank, Ball would not affect the team’s win-loss output in a significant way. ESPN’s trade machine projects that a deal centered around a Ball swap for Knox and Smith Jr would add just one total win to the Knicks 2021 season outlook.

As an added bonus, Ball’s unselfishness and passing skills could help open up the offense for the rest of the roster to thrive. Imagine the benefit of having a player to push the tempo and create easy shots for Barrett, Knox, Toppin, and Robinson.

Ball is also a very skilled defensive player. Infusing a player with a defensive mindset could help those around him learn good habits.

Conclusion

I firmly believe that Ball is a near-perfect gamble for New York. Where else could the team acquire a legitimate household name without paying a king’s ransom? He is an even more ideal fit when one considers that he would move the team interest needle in a significant way without affecting the franchise’s focus on future drafts.

In the best case scenario, Ball could thrive in the spotlight and establish himself as a part of the team’s future. In the worst case, he would be a single season rental that would boost team interest at a low overall cost.

The only caveat that should prevent a potential deal would be an overly high asking price by New Orleans. I would, under no circumstances, part ways with any of the Knicks’ first round capital in a deal centered around Ball. Unless the Pelicans’s throw in another sweetener, I would also avoid adding the Knicks extra 2021 first rounder they acquired from Dallas in the Kristaps Porzingis trade.

At the end of the day, Ball gives the Knicks a low-cost way to bolster their current roster while potentially investing in their future. He is the perfect target for Leon Rose.