NBA Trades: 3 Eastern Conference teams that should make a splash

NBA Trades: 3 East teams that need to make a splash – New York Knicks

Why?: It’s been an up and down year so far for the Knicks, but one that has largely disappointed. The team has not managed to build on last season’s postseason qualification and currently sits in the last play-in spot. They are sitting right at .500.

New York made moves in the offseason that were supposed to help them win now. The team added Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier, both of whom have not had the desired impact, while Julius Randle has gone backwards on defense and in his shooting since his $117 million contract extension.

It has left the Knicks in a difficult spot. The team is geared up to win now but lacks the star power to make a real run. The Knicks need more star power or risk being stuck in the late playoff or play-in spots, both restricting the team’s draft odds and while also giving them a limited chance of challenging for the title.

Without a ton of assets and with little star quality actually on the market, it won’t be easy. But if a big move becomes available that makes sense, then New York should act.

What does the team need?: The Knicks are in serious need of an offensive boost. The team ranks 23rd in offensive rating, scoring 108.8 points per 100 possessions, and is 25th for field goal percentage at 43.8 percent.

New York needs more reliable shot creators and makers that can lift their faltering offense. The point guard spot is an obvious weakness on the roster, but adding a scoring presence in any position would be a huge help for Tom Thibodeau’s team.

But the Knicks’ scoring struggles are particularly evident in the paint. The team ranks at the bottom in points scored in the paint per game at 41.1, and, unsurprisingly, averages the fewest number of two-point attempts per game at 24.6

Adding more of an inside presence, or someone that can penetrate and finish in the paint, would help this Knicks team to improve offensively.

Possible targets?

Domantas Sabonis, Myles Turner, Christian Wood, De’Aaron Fox, Dejounte Murray