NBA New York Knicks

5 Early-Season Trade Targets For the New York Knicks

5 Early-Season Trade Targets for the New York Knicks

Phil Jackson
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The New York Knicks are a train wreck so far this season, and it is a shame they are on television so much more than other Eastern Conference teams. There is still time for hope, though, because Phil Jackson realized this was not going to happen overnight. I'm sure he thought the team would be less embarrassing in 2014, but they will ultimately have to get worse in order to improve. Here are five players New York should target via trade.

5. Goran Dragic

Phoenix Suns v Boston Celtics
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5. Goran Dragic

Phoenix Suns v Boston Celtics
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Don't you think Jackson probably regrets exchanging Tyson Chandler for Jose Calderon at this point? I do. Trading for Goran Dragic would be a coup for the New York Knicks, although, they would likely have to trade a draft pick to make this happen.

4. Tyler Ennis

Minnesota Timberwolves V Phoenix Suns
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4. Tyler Ennis

Minnesota Timberwolves V Phoenix Suns
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Another point guard option that would excel in running the triangle is Tyler Ennis. He is a good enough shooter to space the floor, and the former Syracuse Orange PG would also be able to slice through the lane with Carmelo Anthony on the wing.

3. Ricky Rubio

Ricky Rubio NBA Timberwolves
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3. Ricky Rubio

Ricky Rubio NBA Timberwolves
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The Minnesota Timberwolves would need a lot back to even consider trading Ricky Rubio, however, there are some injury questions about him in his early career. Picking up the Spanish PG would make New York more attractive to Marc Gasol as well, but that is not a scenario likely to happen.

2. Jamal Crawford

Jamal Crawford Los Angeles Clippers Houston Rockets
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2. Jamal Crawford

Jamal Crawford Los Angeles Clippers Houston Rockets
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Jamal Crawford is currently a key piece on the Los Angeles Clippers, but he would give the Knicks some needed scoring punch off the bench. If Jackson could move J.R. Smith in the process, then all the better for New York.

1. Kobe Bryant

Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant
Brian Spurlock- USA TODAY Sports

1. Kobe Bryant

Los Angeles Lakers Kobe Bryant
Brian Spurlock- USA TODAY Sports

You knew this one was coming, right? Kobe Bean Bryant would be a key building block if Phil Jackson thought this crew was capable of winning it all in the next two seasons, and he could also help instill some work ethic in the younger players.

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