New York Knicks: Why trading for Lonzo Ball makes sense
The New York Knicks have shocked the NBA world with their impressive play this season. New York is more than halfway through the season, and they have a win-loss record of 22-22. On top of that, Julius Randle was selected to his first NBA All-Star. RJ Barrett continues to ascend. Mitchell Robinson has transformed into a defensive anchor, and Immanuel Quickley is considered the steal of the draft. So for once, the Knicks outlook is starting to look up.
However, because of the Knicks’ success, they’re in a unique position to be buyers or sellers at the trade deadline (Thursday, March 25, 2021, 3 pm EST). Ideally, the Knicks are capable of being both.
There are many players linked to the New York Knicks in NBA trade deadline rumors. But the most intriguing name that comes up is Lonzo Ball.
As reported by Ian Begley, there is interest in the Knicks organization about acquiring Ball. However, Kevin O’Connor mentioned the New Orleans Pelicans are skeptical about moving Ball at the trade deadline. And to make matters more intriguing, Marc Berman of the New York Post reported that Ball would like to finish the season in New Orleans to see if they can make a playoff push. But LaVar Ball was recently on the record stating that he wants his eldest son traded from the Pelicans.
LaVar would definitely love to see Lonzo play for the Knicks, considering it’s known that LaVar wanted his youngest son, LaMelo Ball, to play in New York when he was a prospect in last year’s draft. Nevertheless, regardless of what LaVar wants for Lonzo, there is uncertainty in Lonzo Ball’s future. So we’ll have to wait and see at the deadline.
However, what is certain is that New York is still looking for the point guard of the future, and Lonzo Ball could solve that problem.
The front office is definitely aware that neither Elfrid Payton nor Derrick Rose are the point guards of the future. Furthermore, as Immanuel Quickley has impressed this season, there are still questions about whether he can be the long-term answer at point guard.
But before Knicks fans continue photoshopping Lonzo in a Knicks uniform, there is a question that needs an answer. And that question is: what’s the cost of trading for Lonzo Ball?
Well, before we can determine what the trade package would look like to get Lonzo Ball in Madison Square Garden, we have to understand his attributes.