It sounds crazy to say but the New York Knicks are back and right now, they are very much in the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference. In Tom Thibodeau’s first season as the head coach of the Knicks, he currently has them as a mid-tier playoff team in the East due to them being one of the best defensive teams in the NBA. 

Right now, New York currently ranks first in points allowed per game (104.4 PAPG) and overall, has one of the highest team defensive efficiency ratings in the league. Defense is at the forefront of what this team does, but they also have Julius Randle, who was named a first-time All-Star this year because of what he has done on the offensive end of the court. 

So far this season, Julius Randle is averaging 23.4 points, 11.0 rebounds, 5.5 assists and is shooting 41.6% from three-point range. The 26-year old forward has elevated his game to a new level and as a result, has the Knicks lined up to make their first postseason appearance since 2013. 

RELATED: NBA Trade Rumors: 3 perfect trade destinations for Pelicans guard Lonzo Ball

After trading for Derrick Rose a few weeks back, the Knicks have a lot of talent in their backcourt, but they could look to add another intriguing guard. Lonzo Ball has been a part of numerous NBA trade rumors recently and with him having a terrific season in New Orleans, he could be the player that solidifies New York as a playoff team. 

While they do have an abundance of backcourt players, could the Knicks look to make one last move before the trade deadline and add Lonzo Ball to their roster? Let’s take a look at what this trade could look like with the Pelicans.