Knicks Rumors: Adding Pau Gasol Would Be Unnecessary Move for New York
The New York Knicks have been linked to a possible Pau Gasol trade (h/t HoopsWorld), but adding the struggling big man would be an unnecessary gamble for New York.
The Knicks are already legitimate title contenders, as they possess everything a championship hopeful needs. They have an elite scorer (Carmelo Anthony), a quality point guard (Jason Kidd), an army of three-point shooters (Kidd, J.R. Smith, Steve Novak, Chris Copeland), and a big man who can dominate defensively (Tyson Chandler).
As soon as they get Iman Shumpert—the team's best perimeter defender—back in the lineup, New York will be one of the most complete teams in the NBA. All it needs to do after that is continue to develop chemistry and try to stay healthy. Adding Gasol would just complicate things.
Besides, Gasol is on the trading block for a reason. The 32-year-old is averaging career-low points (12.7 per game), rebounds (8.7 per game) and field-goal percentage (42.9). He's also scored 20 or more points just once this season and injuries have limited him the last few months.
Even if Gasol were healthy, there's no guarantee he'd be a good fit in New York. The Knicks have been at their best when Carmelo plays the 4, and being relegated to the bench could mess with Gasol's seemingly fragile psyche.
While Gasol is still one of the most skilled big men in the league, his presence isn't necessary in New York. The Knicks should just stay the course and go for the title with their current roster.
