Could Kemba Walker be dealt to the Knicks?

It has been an extremely cold winter for the New York Knicks thus far. A series of injuries in early December caused the team to drop from the fifth seed in the East. Unable to pick back up, the team continued it’s descent in the standings, dropping down to tenth place. The New Year has brought the team a few more wins, but still the Knicks seem stuck. With a 21-25 record, Kristaps Porzingis and company are doing everything they can to climb back into the playoffs, but it is an uphill battle. However, since the season is at the halfway point, teams are looking towards the trade deadline. Perhaps a roster shake up could be in the Knicks’ best interest, but one available player who could really alter the current trajectory of the franchise is Kemba Walker.

The Big Apple’s rough patch

As of Friday, the Charlotte Hornets officially made Kemba Walker available in trade discussions. The Knicks at this point have no shortage of point guards. Jarrett Jack and Frank Ntilikina have been solid for the team thus far. Trey Burke, who the Knicks just waived Ramon Sessions to make room for, was getting work done in the G-League. The Knicks hope that he could do the same for them. Yet, as good as those players have been, the Knicks are still currently on the outside of the playoff picture. Something needs to change and there is nothing wrong with a little bit more star power. If the Knicks are honest with themselves as an organization then they need to realize that something isn’t quite clicking. Porzingis is still only in his third year and as good as he has been he still needs help. A player like Kemba Walker may be a good running mate for Porzingis to help elevate the team to the next level

Good Fit?

Walker has been with Charlotte since he was drafted in 2011. Back then they were still the Bobcats and he was still just learning the game. Seven years later Walker has grown up a bit, but he still has a chip on his shoulder. Walker has seen his team at the bottom and can only claim a handful of playoff appearances. The frustration between him and the organization is more than likely mutual at this point, prompting his new availability. It’s without a doubt that teams will be interested in his services due to his talent. Walker is currently averaging 21.7 points and shooting 42.4% from the field. Additionally, he is averaging 5.8 assists a game. The Knicks may be able to send a package deal that includes Jack, Burke, and perhaps a player like Willy Hernangomez or Kyle O’Quinn. The Knicks may be hesitant to make a deal, however, if Frank Ntilikina is the asking price. Yet, until those talks get under way the Knicks should strongly consider making a move for Kemba Walker.