NBA Trades: 3 Julius Randle trades to help the Knicks

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PORTLAND, OREGON – JANUARY 24: Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks handles the ball against Robert Covington #23 of the Portland Trail Blazers in the first quarter at Moda Center on January 24, 2021 in Portland, Oregon, NBA Trades: 3 Julius Randle trades to help the Knicks. 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 Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /

NBA Trades: 3 Julius Randle trades to help the Knicks – Portland Trail Blazers

Trail Blazers receive: Julius Randle, Evan Fournier

Knicks receive: CJ McCollum, Robert Covington, 2023 First-Round Pick (Top-20 Protected)

This trade may seem like a weird one, but it would give both franchises the shake-up that they desperately need. The New York Knicks would get a new go-to scorer, and the Portland Trail Blazers would put a new cast around Damian Lillard.

The Blazers have been even more of a mess than the Knicks this year. This trade would see them put more talent around Lillard and try out a new fit.

Instead of pairing him with an All-Star-caliber guard, they’d pair him with a forward in Julius Randle. Having guys who have different playstyles might help them out.

Plus, they’d get Evan Fournier in this deal, too, to help replace CJ McCollum. He may not be playing up to his contract, but that doesn’t mean he’s been bad this year – just inconsistent.

For the Knicks, they’d get a guy who can be their lead scorer on a night-to-night basis. McCollum has never gotten that chance with Lillardin the mix, but in 41 games without Lillard he’s averaged nearly 27 points.

Plus, they’d Robert Covington to help shore up their forward depth for this season, and clear some cap space in the long-term by ditching Randle and Fournier.

Maybe this is the switch-up both teams need to kick them into high gear. At the very least, it would give each of them a fresh new look after a disappointing year so far.

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