NBA Trade Rumors: How New York Knicks can resurrect their franchise by acquiring LaMelo Ball from the Minnesota Timberwolves
The New York Knicks are in need of a player who has the ability to be the face of the franchise for years to come. An option could be LaMelo Ball, who is projected to be the number one pick. However, the Knicks have the eighth pick, which means they will have to resort to a trade to acquire him. NBA trade rumors have suggested a number of ways the New York Knicks can make this happen, and a deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves is one of them.
NBA Trade Rumors: How the New York Knicks can land LaMelo Ball despite having the eighth pick
The Minnesota Timberwolves have the first overall pick in the 2020 NBA draft, which means there is a good chance that they would like to use it on LaMelo Ball.
The New York Knicks could interest the Minnesota Timberwolves into giving their pick up, which seems to be an option they are inclined towards anyway. The New York Knicks could prepare a trade package that suits them and the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The Knicks could send young Frenchman Frank Ntilikina and rising star RJ Barrett - who they acquired in last year's draft - to the Minnesota Timberwolves for their first overall pick and use it LaMelo Ball.
At 6'7", Ball is a tall point guard that has exceptional court vision and shot creation abilities. But more than anything, his versatility would make him a great fit for the New York Knicks.
Whenever needed, Ball has switched roles between being the team's shot creator and the high volume scorer, leading his side to victory in tough situations. The 19-year-old has also shown an incredible passing ability, much like his brother Lonzo Ball.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Philadelphia 76ers planning to break up their star duo in order to acquire LaMelo Ball using Minnesota Timberwolves' no. 1 draft pick
On the defensive end, it may seem like LaMelo Ball could be a liability, but that is far from the truth. His performances in the NBL improved gradually on that end of the floor, and he has the potential to grow a lot more as time goes on.
If the New York Knicks pull this off, they will have a generational talent on the roster leading them.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Options for Toronto Raptors as Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol prepare for free agency