Knicks Have A Big Problem This Trade Season

Elite Offense, Lingering Defensive Questions

The Knicks own the league’s third-best offense. They pair it with a middling defense, ranked 14th. That combination produces the league’s fifth-best net rating. They protect the paint at an elite level, ranking fourth. New York struggle to defend the perimeter consistently. They surrender the league’s fifth-most three-pointers. That result surprises many given their perimeter personnel. Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, and Miles McBride anchor that group. Pick-and-roll ballhandlers exploit them too often. The Knicks rank in the 51st percentile in those actions. Their point-of-attack defense remains a concern. Opponents consistently target Jalen Brunson.

The Frontcourt Depth Problem

With that context, the Knicks clearly need another big. They can adjust their perimeter defense internally. They lack enough frontcourt bodies. Karl-Anthony Towns frequently gets into foul trouble. He ranks eighth in total fouls drawn this season. He averages 3.5 fouls per game. Mitchell Robinson has played 21 of a possible 30 games and his injury problems are well documented. Ariel Hukporti plays a limited role. Head coach Mike Brown does not trust him yet.

Trade Constraints And Realistic Targets

New York operates near the second apron. The hard cap limits flexibility. The Knicks must add a big on the margins. They cannot disrupt what already works. Guerschon Yabusele and Pacome Dadiet emerge as clear trade candidates. Yabusele has struggled to find consistency in Brown’s system. Dadiet has yet to flash the potential that earned him the 25th pick. Brooklyn’s Day’Ron Sharpe stands out as an intriguing target. He checks every box the Knicks need in a backup center.