Just throwing it out there, but given the surprising play of the Knicks, I think they should make a run at Lonzo Ball before the trade deadline. I don't know what kind of return the Pelicans are looking for to pry him away, but by most reports, they are in a position to lose him with no compensation this offseason since they just gave Ingram a huge deal and just aren't as likely to do the same for Ball.
I would probably offer some package that includes the highest of our two fist round picks (top 4 protected) as well as Detroit's 2021 second round pick which will be some where between the 31st-33rd picks. If one of the picks falls in that 1-4 range, they just get the lower of the two first round pick unprotected, so in theory if the Knicks got the #1 and #2 pick (won't happen, just illustrating the point), they would get the #2 despite the protection.
As far as players to add, at best these would be throw ins, since the picks are the greater value, so that means no Robinson, Toppin, RJ Barrett or Quickley. Obviously vets like Randle (who they let walk) and Rose would be included, but I doubt they would want either.
So my guess would be 2021 first (top 4) protected, 2021 second (from DET), Elfrid Payton and Kevin Knox. Obviously NOP take a step back this year, but this may put them in a better position going forward.
