New York Knicks: Series vs. Hawks proves need for Lonzo Ball

Although the New York Knicks were very successful this season thanks to the likes of Derrick Rose and Immanuel Quickley, this team still needs an upgrade at the point guard position. Additionally, the team needs an upgrade specifically when it comes to player archetypes.

Some examples of these are 3 point shooting (especially at a high volume), perimeter defense, and playmaking. In an ideal world, the Knicks will be able to find a player who can contribute in each of these areas.

Luckily for them, Lonzo Ball is hitting the free agent market.

The New York Knicks Could Go After Lonzo Ball in Free Agency

For months now, including in the weeks dating back to before the NBA trade deadline, Ball and the Knicks have been linked together. The Knicks immediate acquisition of a lead guard started and ended with the Rose deal, but that doesn’t mean the New York Knicks’ interest in the UCLA product will or should waver.

What was the one major issue outside of Julius Randle’s struggles that doomed New York in the playoffs first round against the Atlanta Hawks? This guy:

Oh wait, no. Sorry, I meant Trae Young. I’m sure you understand my confusion.

Young was scoring at will. Heck, beyond at will. I’m not entirely sure he wasn’t yawning every time he did a crossover, or hit a floater, or threw a lob. It was that easy for him. The Knicks refused to take away his right hand while our best perimeter player was all but glued to the bench outside of about three possessions all series. Damn, I really hope we haven’t seen the last of the French Prince.

Young’s rampage proved to the world that the Knicks aren’t yet ready to combat a player of Young’s caliber in the playoffs. That player is one who can break down a defense so easily despite it being an elite defense. The Knicks need a ball stopper on the perimeter. Every team needs multiple guys like that to compete at the highest level.