New York Knicks: Four pass-first point guards to target via Trade

Despite the recent cries from New York Knicks fans, the franchise is reportedly opting against the pursuit of a trade deadline deal for an established star. While it is important to note that any deadline news may always be a smokescreen or leverage play, the current trade market does not seem to feature a star that is an obvious fit in NYC.

However, this report does suggest that New York does plan to remain active around the March 25th deadline, focusing more on complementary players than on a centerpiece.

The star-starved Knicks would receive a major jolt of energy from an All-Star acquisition. However, the team’s hot start and defensive identity could result in a postseason berth with a player like newly crowned All-Star Julius Randle serving as the team’s #1 option. There is good wisdom in saving future assets to build around a budding young roster in future seasons.

This strategy makes even more sense when one considers the Knicks’ biggest overall need. I recently wrote a piece explaining why New York’s biggest on-court issue is their lack of a pass-first ball handler.

While the recently acquired Derrick Rose gives the team a veteran leader and closing option, New York lacks a player with the passing ability to transform an offense full of young wing players and slashers.

Imagine the impact one of the top facilitators could have on the development of guys like RJ Barrett, Obi Toppin, Mitchell Robinson, and Kevin Knox. A player with this skill set would help get easy baskets in transition or the half-court would give so much momentum and confidence to this young core.

Basketball has always been a rhythm game. What better way to get in the zone than by getting consistent, easy, baskets?

An average Knicks offense would be completely changed by the presence of a pass-first PG. Thankfully, there are a few such players on the trade market that would fit into the non-superstar class New York is reportedly targeting. Here are the top three: