NY Knicks: 3 Potential Eric Bledsoe trades at the deadline

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - MARCH 01: Eric Bledsoe #5 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts against the Utah Jazz during a game at the Smoothie King Center on March 01, 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 Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - MARCH 01: Eric Bledsoe #5 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts against the Utah Jazz during a game at the Smoothie King Center on March 01, 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 Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /
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JJ Redick, NY Knicks
JJ Redick, NY Knicks (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

The NY Knicks improve their shooting

Alec Burks has been on a hot streak for the NY Knicks. In his last four games, he’s averaging 20 points and 5.8 rebounds while seeing playing time at point guard. New York may be hesitant to part with their sharpshooter off the bench, but in this trade, he’s being replaced by Veteran JJ Redick. Redick and the Pelicans are destined for a breakup, as a buyout is inevitable if he is not moved before the deadline. He wants to be back in New York, and it’s safe to say the NY Knicks could use him more than the Nets.

While Burks’ trade value has gone up this season, he alone wouldn’t be enough to get the deal done, so the Knicks would include the Detroit Pistons second-round pick, a pick which is poised to be at the top of the round. The Knicks upgrade their second-rounder for a first, slightly downgrade from Burks to Redick, all while adding Bledsoe and maintaining flexibility in the offseason. Don’t be surprised if the Knicks waived Bledsoe following next season or use him to match salaries in a larger deal.

The most important thing for the Knicks to do is keep their young core intact while continuing to compete for a playoff spot.  The addition of Bledsoe helps that goal – particularly if it helps land Lonzo Ball.  It may not be worth the trouble if the team were to only land Bledsoe and even Redick, but it’s worth the discussion. Unlike some other moves.

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