The New York Knicks are in dire need of backcourt help as the team tries to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The Knicks’ point guard rotation of Jeraint Grant and Jose Calderon has not helped the team much in winning games. Calderon and Grant only average a combined total of 6.1 points per game despite getting quality minutes.

New York has an open roster spot, and according to ESPN’s Ian Begley, the Knicks are closely monitoring the market for an upgrade at the backcourt department. Begley noted that the Knicks is interested in obtaining a guard via trade or free agent signing.

According to Begley, the Knicks is looking into singing Tony Wroten, who was released by the Philadelphia 76ers earlier this month. Wroten averaged 8.4 points and 2.5 assists while playing 18 minutes per contest for the 76ers this season.

Wroten would be a good addition for the Knicks, but it is unlikely for him to become a game-changer for the struggling franchise. If the Knicks wishes to improve its chances for a playoff run this season, it must consider dealing for a proven and tested star like Jamal Crawford.

The Los Angeles Clippers has put Crawford on the trading block, alongside Lance Stephenson and Josh Smith, according to Michael Scotto of Sheridan Hoops. Crawford, who is averaging 15.5 points and 3.6 assists for the Clips, would instantly address the Knicks’ backcourt issue.

Maxwell Ogden of the Daily Knicks listed Crawford as one of the possible guards New York could pursue before the trade deadline.

“Beyond that glass-half-full mentality is the reality that Crawford is one of the most respected locker room presences in the NBA,” Ogden wrote. “He’d fit in well with young players, teaming with the current veterans to help rookies Jeraint Grant and Kristaps Porzingis adjust to life in the Association.”

The Knicks could offer a deal involving Arron Afflalo and Derrick Williams, although it would probably take more than just two players to acquire Crawford from Los Angeles.

RELATED STORIES