Knicks: A comprehensive breakdown of the first 20 games
How to approach the trade deadline
The NBA trade deadline is March 25th, but that doesn’t mean that the Knicks won’t consider improving the team prior to the deadline. The orange and blue’s next ten games feature seven games against opponents with a sub-.500 record, however, neither the Chicago Bulls nor Miami should be taken lightly. Depending on their level of success, the Knicks might be buyers or sellers at the deadline. The Athletic’s Shams Charania has already linked the Knicks to Derrick Rose, and the rumors are likely to increase as we get closer to March.
Sellers:
If the Knicks decide to sacrifice this season, Alec Burks could be on the trading block. The 10-year vet is averaging 14 points per game and is shooting 45 percent from the three-point line. Last season, the Knicks traded hot-shooting Marcus Morris to the Los Angeles Clippers and, in return, they received a first-round pick. There will be a market for Burks, but it’s unlikely that the Knicks will be able to get anything more than two second-round picks for the former University of Colorado standout.
Another Knick that could find himself with another team after the trading deadline is Austin Rivers. Rivers has been having a nice first season in New York, and just recently had a jaw-dropping first quarter in a loss to the Utah Jazz, where he scored 25 points in 12 minutes. Rivers’ last two years of his deal are not guaranteed, thus he would be a nice fit on a contender.
Buyers:
Rose’s connections with his former agency will always lead some to believe the Knicks will be in the conversation with players who are or have been repped by CAA. However, their cap flexibility also makes them a prime candidate to absorb a good player on a long-term deal or take on a bad deal attached with some draft picks. Although unlikely, the Knicks should certainly look into Zach LaVine. LaVine ranks within the top 10 in the league in scoring, was an All-Star last season and was previously coached by Thibodeau in Minnesota. LaVine would cost a pretty penny, but his playmaking is underrated and this might help move Barrett to small forward, which might be a better fit.
Forward progress has been the name of the game over the first 20 games. The Knicks have a competent coaching staff. Generally, they play hard every night and defend at a high level.
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If playing meaningful games in February turns into playing meaningful games in April, you can guarantee that this fanbase will be ready to anoint Rose and coach Thibs as kings of New York.