NY Knicks: 3 things to hope for in the new year
A few New Year’s resolutions for the New York Knicks.
It’s New Year’s Eve, so we might as well have some fun and list a few resolutions for the New York Knicks in 2021.
1) Trade Julius Randle for a future asset
Julius Randle is off to an incredible start to the season. He became the only Knick besides Patrick Ewing to record a triple double with at least 28 points, 12 rebound and 11 assists. Who knows how long he keeps it up, but the Steve Mills signing could suddenly become a valuable asset on the trade market.
If a contending team suffers an injury or is in need of a final piece, Randle, whose contract is only guaranteed for $4 million in 2021-22, could become a hot commodity. The Knicks would need to take salary back in trading the 26-year-old forward, but that could lead to an even better return if they offer a productive player and long-term cap relief to a playoff team.
2) Hope one of the rookies turns into a star
This might be a little too much to ask. But every year, a rookie emerges from the draft who makes it clear that they are going to be a star in the league. With Obi Toppin and Immanuel Quickley, the Knicks have two players who could outperform expectations and prove they are legitimate pieces in the rebuild.
Quickley already has Knicks fans excited about his potential after an impressive preseason. Toppin’s start has been a bit slower. Both have been out of the lineup due to injuries.
If just one of these two players makes it obvious that they are the real deal, it would be a successful first draft for Leon Rose and company.
3) Gain some respectability
The 2021 Draft is supposed to be stacked with talent. It’s understandable why fans hope this Knicks team that isn’t very good on paper ends with the best possible lottery odds.
But Tom Thibodeau is as much a part of the rebuild as any player on the roster. The Knicks have suffered from instability along the sideline. If the new coach can instill habits in this young bunch and surprise people with a record that is respectable for their talent, it would be a huge step forward in his first season.
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The Knicks can have endless cap space and play in the World’s Most Famous Arena, but until they prove they are a competent organization on the way up, no superstar is going to want to play in New York.