4. New York Knicks
Especially after the firing of head coach Derek Fisher, it’s increasingly clear that making the playoffs in the Eastern Conference is the goal for the New York Knicks this season, even if that wasn’t totally in play coming into the year. However, they’re going to need to move some pieces if they plan to get over the hump and do that. Subsequently, their likely willingness to make some trades puts them in consideration in regards to Bass.
However, the Knicks are also a team that makes a ton of sense in regards to what Bass could bring the team. Again, the big man for the Lakers would bring New York another veteran with postseason experience to a team that is largely short on that. Even more important, though, Bass would bring the Knicks much more help than he has the Lakers in terms of them needing help in regards to frontcourt depth. While Robin Lopez and Kristaps Porzingis have been solid, it gets shaky after them and Bass could provide a stabilizing presence if he were to be traded there.
Unless New York would be willing to part with a player like Jerian Grant as another asset for the Lakers (which might not be a good move for LA anyway), the likely return for Bass would be an expiring contract from the Knicks. However, that would fit into LA’s plans and ultimately make sense.
Next: No. 3 Grizzlies