New York Knicks trying to trade for Suns forward P.J. Tucker

In an attempt to shore up their defence, the New York Knicks (16-19) are trying to acquire Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker ahead of the February trade deadline, per reports.

The Knicks, after beginning the season on a stellar note, have lost six consecutive games including eight losses in their last ten games, threatening to miss the postseason for a fourth consecutive year. Though some of their recent losses have come in close contests, the most recent one being a 105-104 defeat to the Milwaukee Bucks, several analysts feel the team needs to shore up its perimeter defence and shooting depth to stay in contention for a playoff berth.

New York is embroiled in a tough battle with Indiana Pacers (18-18), Chicago Bulls (17-18), Washington Wizards (16-18) and Detroit Pistons (16-21) for the seventh and eighth seeds in the highly competitive eastern conference. The Knicks remain the second worst defensive unit in the conference, allowing 108.4 points per game.

New York Knicks trade target: P.J. Tucker

According to ESPN, Tucker has emerged as a trade target due to his defensive-minded approach to the sport. "The club is in need of tough defenders, and (P.J.) Tucker has earned a reputation as a strong defender over his five-year career. This season, he ranks 22nd among 80 qualified small forwards in ESPN’s defensive RPM.

"That might not seem like an elite measurement, but Tucker would certainly seem to be an upgrade for a Knicks club in need of one," reported Ian Begley before adding that "some members of the Knicks' front office have labelled Phoenix Suns forward P.J. Tucker as a potential trade target."

The report further added that the Knicks could offer a package of Kyle O’Quinn, Willy Hernangomez and Mindaugas Kuzminskas to acquire Tucker's contract from Phoenix. New York also owns a 2017 first round draft pick but president Phil Jackson recently insisted that the team wishes to hold onto the pick.

While P.J. Tucker won't instantly improve New York's chances of returning to the playoffs, the team could benefit from the addition of a proven, defensive specialist.