New York Knicks: Pros and cons of trading for Eric Gordon
New York Knicks: Eric Gordon Pros — 3-point shooting
Gordon’s top skill is undoubtedly his shooting from behind the arc. Over the past 6 seasons, Gordon is shooting 36% from three on an incredible 8.4 attempts per game. His ability to hit threes on high volume made him a crucial part of numerous Rockets playoff teams.
He’s also able to hit his looks at a high degree of difficulty, often connecting on attempts way beyond the three-point line. His three-point percentage of 43.4% this season currently ranks 11th in the NBA.
The Knicks offense is heavily reliant on catch-and-shoot threes, as Julius Randle often handles the ball in the post and kicks it out to shooters. Gordon is currently hitting 48.5% of his 3.0 catch-and-shoot threes per game. New York’s top player in that category is currently Derrick Rose, who is connecting on just 42.6% of his 2.2 catch-and-shoot attempts.
Gordon’s floor-spacing ability is the reason why he’s been a valuable role player on several contending teams, and he would provide a major boost to New York’s Randle-focused offense.
New York Knicks: Eric Gordon Pros — Versatility
While trading for a high-scoring player such as Gordon usually guarantees them a starting spot, that may not be the case. The overwhelming majority of his appearances over the past few years have been off the bench, and he’s thrived in that role as evidenced by his 2016-17 6th Man of the Year award.
The Knicks could bring him in as a shooter in the starting lineup, or have him play with the run & gun bench unit and their fast-paced style of offense.
He’s also spent time in multiple positions throughout his career. He’s logged a fair share of playing time at the point guard, shooting guard, and small forward positions. He’s able to adapt to each one and fill the role in an adequate way. For example, he started at point guard against New York on Thursday and recorded 9 assists in 30 minutes.
Gordon would be able to fill a myriad of scoring and playmaking roles for a Knicks squad that can often lack offensive creativity.