New York Knicks trade rumors: Knicks eyeing Stephenson swoop

Looking to load up on new players this coming season, the New York Knicks are rumored to be looking for another guard.

There have been rumors claiming that the Knicks are trying to get Lance Stephenson to strengthen their guard position.

At 25 years old, Stephenson is young and has a lot to offer any team, especially on the defensive end.

However, since moving away from the Indiana Pacers at the end of the 2013-14 season, Stephenson's productivity has dropped.

Stephenson began last season with the Los Angeles Clippers and only played 43 games before being moved to the Memphis Grizzlies.

He struggled to find his position with the Clippers, only averaging 4.7 points per game.

However, when he moved to the Grizzlies, he found his groove and finished the season averaging 14.7 points per game. He played 27 minutes per game and shot around 47% from the field.

Other reports claim that the connection between the Knicks and Stephenson is plausible and that Stephenson may be the missing link that would push the Knicks over the hump and as a playoff franchise again.

As a point guard, Stephenson should battle for playing time with Derrick Rose, who was picked up from the Chicago Bulls, but Stephenson should also find himself playing alongside Rose if the deal falls through.

His greatest strengths are his intensity and defense as Stephenson is a known irritant on the defensive end and is a big guard who can defend players from the one to three spots.

Stephenson is out of a contract and earned $9 million during his time with the Grizzlies last year. If he can renegotiate a contract that's around the same amount with the Knicks, then the Eastern Conference franchise might work something out to acquire his services.

The 25-year-old was an important asset with the Grizzlies last year during their playoff run. He averaged 13 points per game while also playing under 24 minutes per game.