The New York Knicks have been urged to pursue Toronto Raptors playmaker Bruce Brown. Matthew Legros of Empire Sports Media called Brown a potential game-changer for the Knicks’ struggling bench unit. Brown is just two years off a championship season with the Denver Nuggets, offers energy, versatility, and championship experience that could elevate the Knicks’ second unit. However, acquiring him may prove challenging under the current salary cap constraints.
Knicks Urged To Get “Josh Hart 2.0”, Bruce Brown In Pipe Dream Deal
Bruce Brown Could Revive the Knicks’ Bench
The Knicks’ bench has struggled this season, ranking last in the league with only 20.4 points per game. The gap between them and the next lowest-scoring bench, the Lakers, is 4.8 points per game.
Legros believes Brown could replicate Josh Hart’s impact in the starting lineup, bringing high energy and smart play to the Knicks’ second unit. Brown is known for his rebounding, transition play, and decision-making. Despite standing just 6-foot-4, he averages 4.6 rebounds per game for his career, comparable to Hart’s production.
Brown excels at defensive rebounding and quickly pushing the ball in transition. His 13.5% career assist rate aligns closely with Hart’s 13.3%, showcasing his ability to set up teammates.
A Dynamic Playmaker with Championship Pedigree
Brown’s ability to impact winning was evident during his time with the Indiana Pacers and Nuggets. For the Pacers, Brown contributed to 11 more expected wins, ranking in the 78th percentile for on/off differential at +4.9. His presence on the court elevated his team’s offensive rating by 7.1 points per 100 possessions, placing him in the 95th percentile.
Brown also improved his team’s effective field goal percentage by 2.7% and offensive rebounding rate by 3.8%, ranking in the 90th and 85th percentiles, respectively. This combination of statistical impact and championship experience makes Brown an appealing target for the Knicks.
Brown’s Three-Point Shooting Adds Value
Brown isn’t a high-volume three-point shooter, but he provides value in specific scenarios. His career three-point percentage of 33.6% may not turn heads, but he thrives in catch-and-shoot opportunities when left open.
Last season, Brown shot an impressive 38.4% from three when defenders were 4-6 feet away. His ability to knock down open shots would add a new dimension to the Knicks’ bench offense.
Knicks Face Challenges in Acquiring Brown
While Brown’s $23 million expiring contract might seem manageable, the Knicks face significant obstacles in making a deal. The team is hard-capped at the second luxury tax apron under the new CBA. They cannot exceed this limit, even to complete their roster.
Aggregating contracts to match Brown’s salary would leave the Knicks below the mandatory 14-player roster size. To fill the roster afterward, the team would need to exceed the second apron, which the CBA prohibits.
These financial restrictions make acquiring Brown nearly impossible without including a core player in the trade. Given the team’s current chemistry and success, sacrificing a key player would make little sense.
A Move Worth Exploring
Despite the hurdles, Brown’s championship experience and versatility could bring significant benefits to the Knicks. He would provide the energy and playmaking they desperately need off the bench.
If the Knicks can navigate the financial complexities, Brown could be the spark to push them deeper into playoff contention. For now, acquiring him remains a pipe dream, but one worth considering for a team aiming to compete at the highest level.
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