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2022 NBA Draft blockbuster trade Knicks should make with Wizards

By Kramer Smith

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 18: Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks is guarded by Kyle Kuzma #33 of the Washington Wizards during the second half of the game at Madison Square Garden on March 18, 2022 in New York City. 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 Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 18: Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks is guarded by Kyle Kuzma #33 of the Washington Wizards during the second half of the game at Madison Square Garden on March 18, 2022 in New York City. 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 Dustin Satloff/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks, Washington Wizards, Kyle Kuzma, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Kyle Kuzma, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Washington Wizards. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) – New York Knicks /

Why the Knicks should make this trade

The Knicks would make this trade to first and foremost move up in the draft and have an opportunity to select another young star to add to their arsenal. The team desperately needs a point guard, and any advantage they can get in acquiring one needs to at least be examined.

As I discussed above, Randle went from New York’s hero to zero in the eyes of a lot of fans this year. After Toppin had the best streak of his young career during Randle’s injury absence, many are ready to write off the former Most Improved Player this summer.

The Knicks would acquire a wing talent of nearly the same age in Kuzma for half the price of Randle. New York coveted Kuzma years ago when looking to move on from Marcus Morris, but the trade never gained any legs.

In 2021-22, Kuzma statistically nearly saw a 5 points per game increase from 2020-21 and gained a lot of confidence in his game while Washington was depleted.

The Knicks would also acquire a veteran wing in Caldwell-Pope, whose acquisition could open the door for the team to find another lucrative trade involving Alec Burks.

This trade increases the team’s draft stock while widening the lineup to allow Toppin an opportunity to be a starter. Kuzma would add more versatility to New York’s roster, and if able to see another increase in stats, would rival Randle in production next year.

There may be more pieces needed to facilitate a trade like this, but at its roots, it’s a feasible option for two franchises looking to retool and reach their goals.

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