The New York Knicks have been struggling to find consistent scoring and shooting from their bench, which has made it challenging for the team to compete in the Eastern Conference. Following the trade deadline, the Knicks will look to address this issue and strengthen their bench. Here are some potential moves they could make:
1. **Free Agency Signing**:
The Knicks will have around $20 million in cap space following the trade deadline, which they can use to sign a free agent who can provide shooting and scoring depth to the bench. Some potential free agents who have been mentioned in the past as possible Knicks targets include:
* Reggie Bullock: A versatile wing who can provide shooting and scoring on the wing.
* Bryn Forbes: A shooter who can provide a much-needed boost to the Knicks’ three-point shooting.
* Danny Green: A veteran wing who can provide shooting and defensive expertise.
* Mike Muscala: A stretch-five who can provide scoring and shooting off the bench.
2. **Trade Deadline Acquisitions**:
While the Knicks will have cap space to sign free agents, they may also look to make trades to bring in new players. Some potential trade targets who could strengthen the Knicks’ bench include:
* **Patrick Williams (Chicago Bulls)**: A stretch-four who can provide scoring and shooting off the bench.
* **Donte DiVincenzo (Milwaukee Bucks)**: A versatile wing who can provide scoring, shooting, and defensive expertise.
* **Mikal Bridges (Phoenix Suns)**: A shooting guard who can provide scoring and shooting off the bench.
* **Torrey Craig (Denver Nuggets)**: A stretch-five who can provide scoring and shooting off the bench.
3. **Internal Roster Moves**:
The Knicks may also look to internal roster moves to strengthen their bench. One potential move could be to promote RJ Barrett’s friend and teammate, **Quinn Harris** (who now has become Quentin Grimes), to a more significant role in the rotation.
4. **Development of Young Players**:
The Knicks also have a number of young players in their system who could contribute to the bench, including:
* **Quentin Jackson**: A versatile wing who has shown flashes of scoring potential.
* **Jalen Duren**: A young center who could provide defensive strength off the bench.
* **Dane Michalski**: A stretch-four who has shown scoring potential in the G-League.
**Trade Scenarios**:
The Knicks may look to make trades to bring in new players who can strengthen their bench. Here are a few potential trade scenarios:
1. **Trade for Patrick Williams**:
The Knicks could trade for Patrick Williams by sending out a package of their young players, including Quentin Jackson or RJ Barrett, along with their 2024 first-round pick.
2. **Trade for Donte DiVincenzo**:
The Knicks could trade for Donte DiVincenzo by sending out a package of their young players, including Quentin Jackson or RJ Barrett, along with their 2024 first-round pick.
3. **Trade for Mikal Bridges**:
The Knicks could trade for Mikal Bridges by sending out a package of their young players, including Quentin Jackson or RJ Barrett, along with their 2024 first-round pick.
**Salary Cap Considerations**:
When making trades or free agency signings, the Knicks must consider their salary cap situation. They currently have around $20 million in cap space, which would allow them to sign a mid-level free agent or trade for a player who makes around $10-12 million per year. However, if they make a significant trade, they may need to shed salary to free up cap space.
**Conclusion**:
The Knicks have several options to strengthen their bench following the trade deadline. They could sign free agents, make trades, or promote young players to more significant roles in the rotation. However, any move they make must be carefully considered to ensure that it aligns with their salary cap situation and long-term goals.
Ultimately, the key to the Knicks’ success will be their ability to create a cohesive and effective bench that can provide consistent scoring and shooting support to the starting lineup. With careful consideration and strategic planning, the Knicks can build a stronger bench and compete more effectively in the Eastern Conference.
