We already know the chemistry of this roster has failed fast so trading is an imperative.
You paint well.
Extremely well, truth be told.
But in this case, with way to broad a fucking brush.
I look at Julius Randle in November, and Julius Randle in December, and I see growth.
I look at Frank and Kevin and see progress.
You see us cutting our losses.
In other words, ANOTHER REBOOT.
No
Thank
You
We've been having fire sales for twenty years when fans, the press, management lost patience, lost heart.
Not standing still. No. NOT HAVING A HISSY FIT AND JUST WILY NILLY TURNING OVER THE ROSTER.
Been There. Done That.
Sorry.
But NO SALE.
Chip,
Here's the reality.
Free agency is DOA for the coming two summers unless the Knicks dramatically reverse their fortunes. The Knicks would be looking to outbid winning teams for the paltry two or three players worth signing. The chances of winning the free agents is slim and none.
So trading for talent is a priority AND we have the kinds of assets teams desire.
Our summer signings were expensive internships. If a player or two stick from that cohort, its a win. IMO, Gibson, Morris, and Bullock (until he proves otherwise) stick.
The fact that Randle and Portis are playing better is great but they were never expected to be keepers. Ellington is expendable and Payton is a keeper unless we trade into a know-quality PG in which case he could be flipped for a greater need.
Of the kiddie corp, RJ, Mitch, Frankie, Dotson, and Iggy stick. Knox and Trier precisely because of their desrability should be on the trade bubble.
The mid-season goal has to be that either Portis becomes a consistent, heavy-weight C to complement Mitch or we need to find one in trade.
A decision has to be made to stick with Payton/Frankie as a two headed PG going forward OR trade in a Westbrook, Conley, CP3.
As is obvious, we should be looking for shooters and specifically either a SF or PF upgrade.
This year has to be a competitive one. Being perennial losers and laughingstocks isn't rebuilding.
So, to your concern. No, we aren't giving up on the rebuild, we would be hardening the roster every available opportunity.
NO WILLY_NILLY.
NO FIRE SALE.