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

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 17: Lonzo Ball #2 of the New Orleans Pelicans dribbles the ball down court during the third quarter of an NBA game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Smoothie King Center on February 17, 2021, in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

New York Knicks target: Lonzo Ball

A trade for Lonzo Ball has long been a source of speculation among Knicks fans and analysts. After his poor performance in the bubble, it seemed like more of a joke than a serious option. However, his strong play during the first half of the 2020-2021 season has caused his value and reputation to skyrocket.

The former #2 overall draft pick has developed a similar reputation to Rubio over the first three seasons of his career. He is a great passer with elite vision and feel for the game. He has averaged 5.8 assists per game and has posted averages above 7 in two of his first four seasons (2017 and 2019). He is also one of the best rebounders (averaging 4.7 boards per game in his career) and defenders at his position. He clearly makes an impact while he is on the floor. His skill set is just different than most other players that play his position.

His scoring and shooting limitations have capped him in the tier of a role player. However, the historically streaky shooter is currently in the hottest stretch of his career.

Ball is averaging career-highs across the board with marks at 14.1 points per game, 41% from the field, and a super solid 38% from behind the three-point arc on 7.7 attempts a contest. He has suddenly become one of the best shooters in the league. This hot start to the season has led to speculation that he may be taken off the trade market and retained by New Orleans.

The Knicks should expect to face additional difficulties if they seriously pursue a deal for Ball. Not only is his availability in question, but his price tag is also growing by the day. A recent article by The Athletic speculated that Ball could fetch as many as two first-round draft picks in a mock trade to Boston. This is likely too high a price for New York to pay.

However, should the price drop, his age and skill set would be a great match in MSG.

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