Knicks Trade Targets

Just as it looked like the Knicks were finally turning the page, the last three weeks have significantly hurt the Knicks playoff hopes. They have won just two games in that span and are sitting 1.5 games out of the play-in tournament. Even the least optimistic fan could not have expected the season to be this disappointing. If there's anything significant about this recent stretch, it's the likelihood that there will certainly be a trade at the deadline. The question is who should they pursue?

1. DeJountae Murray
In his fifth season, point guard Dejounte Murray has truly blossomed into one of the best draft steals in recent memory. Drafted at 29th overall by the 67 win San Antonio Spurs, Murray's production has gradually increased over the years. He's currently averaging career highs all across the board with averages of 19 points, nine assists, eight rebounds, and two steals. With Murray becoming a free agent in two seasons, they will likely extend him considering he's only 26 years old. However, the Knicks have plenty of draft capital for the next two NBA drafts, including three first round picks. They can certainly use their abundance of picks in order to finally get a young point guard capable of running an offense. Something that has held them back this year. 

2. Myles Turner
Since December, Mitchell Robinson has certainly been playing as if he wants to stay in New York. However, his inability to stretch the floor and handle the ball has hurt the Knicks' offense at times and trading for Myles Turner would fix that. Whether they keep Robinson or not, Turner would provide an upgrade. He can put the ball on the floor and has shot a respectable 35% from three throughout his career. Lots of teams were interested in him before he had a stress reaction in his foot. Since then teams have been less active in pursuing him. If the Knicks can offer at least one draft pick, they should pounce on that opportunity.

3. Jalen Brunson
Although he hasn't started much during his career, Jalen Brunson of the Dallas Mavericks is an intriguing option for the Knicks. He's averaging career highs in points (17) and assists (5), and is well on his way toward setting a new personal best for games started. Additionally, Brunson is the most realistic player the Knicks can pursue. He will become an unrestricted free agent after the season and it will be hard to imagine the Mavericks meeting his contract demands. One main contributor toward this possibility is the fact that Luka Doncic has took the pressure of him. However, that should not stop the Knicks from trying to land him. Especially if they want to make a playoff push like last year. 
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