Knicks: As I've said numerous times, losing Mitch would be tough, but I think the Knicks have to both plan to contend this year but also be mindful of the future. Losing Mitch is tough, but the Knicks already having their starting center in KAT. I'm still of the argument that the Knicks need to lean into offense and start Deuce. This trade is aimed at leaning into that option. I also think that while the Knicks lose a rim protector for the starting lineup in Mitch, that Deuce's defense is somehow being overlooked. Bridges is a great defender, but it's become apparent that point of attack is no longer is strong point. Deuce can be that point of attack defender, allowing for Bridges to shift his defensive duties to suit his strength more. Missi is younger, on a cheaper contract for 3 seasons and looked like a solid backup center who could still improve. For free agent signings, the most controversial would be the signing of Westbrook. Westbrook has plenty of faults, but he plays hard, still passes well and could run the second unit. And for the minimum, I think he's worth it. I'm worried about Ben Simmons health and mentality (reports indicate he may retire) and the health of other options like Brogdon is also worrisome. Plus, I do think that Westbrook tends to rise to the occasion and he'd have the chance to do so in New York. The Knicks bring back Shamet who did a good job this past season and is a great catch and shoot 3 point shooter. I also have them signing McCullar to a long term low salary deal. They'd still have 3.7 million in space to work with to scour the buyout market later in the season too. The depth chart would be solid, and look like this:

PG: Brunson, Westbrook, Kolek

SG: Deuce, Clarkson

SF: Bridges, Hart, Shamet, McCullar

PF: OG, Yabusuele, Dadiet

C: KAT, Missi, Hukporti

Pelicans: The Pelicans situation is just so weird. Missi had a solid first year, but struggled in summer league and they traded an unprotected FRP for the chance to draft Queen. They also signed Looney but it weirdly feels like they need help at center despite all of that. They get a starter in Mitch and bring him home to Louisiana where he played high school ball. He's still young and fits the timeline of this group. He has injury risks but is a high reward signing as he's arguably the best offensive rebounder and rim protector in the league (or at least top 3).

Thoughts?