The New York Knicks are severely lacking in two major categories, but they may disregard their current weaknesses to land an established superstar.
In a puzzling move, the Knicks could trade for a Los Angeles Lakers phenomenon to help them form a daunting super team.
“The Knicks’ offer for LeBron James is a robust package of talent, defense, and draft capital,” Fadeaway World’s Eddie Bitar wrote Thursday.
“Mikal Bridges, a budding two-way star posting 16.9 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, gives the Lakers a player who can score efficiently, defend at an elite level, and fit seamlessly alongside Anthony Davis.”
“Josh Hart, with his hustle and versatility, brings energy and defensive intensity (13.9 points per game, 8.3 rebounds per game, 5.5 assists per game), while Mitchell Robinson provides rim protection and rebounding prowess to bolster the Lakers’ interior.”
“From the Knicks’ standpoint, this trade is the ultimate splash, pairing LeBron James with Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and OG Anunoby to form one of the most stacked lineups in recent memory.”
“LeBron’s leadership and playmaking could unlock new dimensions for the Knicks’ offense while giving them a legitimate shot at Eastern Conference supremacy over the Boston Celtics.”
“It’s a bold move for New York, but it aligns with their appetite for marquee names and high-pressure situations.”
“While the Knicks would miss Bridges’ versatility and Hart’s heart-and-soul energy, bringing The King to Madison Square Garden might finally end their decades-long championship drought.”
James isn’t in the MVP conversation to start the 2024-25 campaign, but he certainly isn’t a weak link on the disappointing 13-12 Lakers squad.
As a physically imposing 6-foot-9 forward who puts instant pressure on defenses when the ball is in his possession, James can still elevate a franchise with his awe-inspiring play on the hardwood.
The 20-time All-Star is one assist and two rebounds short of averaging a triple-double this season.
Bridges, a lengthy 6-foot-6 wing who can take on various offensive and defensive roles, is having an encouraging season in his own right, netting 17.0 points per contest on 48.1% shooting from the field.
While it would be interesting to watch James team up with Towns, Brunson, and Anunoby in New York, the Knicks’ frontcourt depth and bench production need the most attention.
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