Knicks, the reasons why Westbrook trading is not wise

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Russell Westbrook is not Chris Paul. This is an important point to make. For the Knicks to consider trading for a veteran star past their prime, they need to make sure the player they’re receiving checks lots of intangible boxes beyond what they can offer on the floor.

Chris Paul is a better basketball player than Westbrook. It would have a positive influence on the pitch. It can be argued that he would have pushed the Knicks to a low seed for the playoffs. The ceiling with Westbrook is not that high. And if it doesn’t help on the pitch, what value does it really add?

Westbrook might put the Knicks in some extra national TV games, but for a franchise that’s already in the spotlight, they need credibility more than viewers.

Paul is one of the most respected players in the league. He has close relationships with many of the game’s biggest stars. If he arrives in New York and proves he can be successful, perhaps even with a smile on his face while playing with villain James Dolan, that should send a message to the champions that they might consider joining the Knicks in the future.

Westbrook is not the same height. He is a talented player. Would he be the best point guard to wear a Knicks jersey since Clyde? But he’s not the kind of star who can transform a franchise, on or off the pitch.

If Leon Rose wants to acquire an aging star, there are better options than Russell Westbrook.