NBA- Knicks and Magic Make Deals

The Knicks got Zach Randolf and the Magic signed Rashard Lewis in an attempt to get to the playoffs. Still, the Knicks need defense and the Magic, like Boston, are looking for a point guard.

Power forward Randolph has played six years with Portland, averaging 23.6 PPG, 10.1 RPG and 0.2 BPG. Overall, heâ€™s a solid inside player. He will be upfront with center Eddy Curry (19.5 PPG, 7 RPG, 0.5 BPG), who is starting his 7th season, and with Stephon Marbury (16.4 PPG, 5.4 APG, 1 SPG) at point guard and Jamal Crawford (17.6 PPG, 4.4 APG, 3-point% .320) at swing. Those guys give the Knicks scoring potential.

But statistically, New York had a tough time controlling the ball with an A/TO of 1.15, the next to the worst in the league, and a TO differential of -15.9, which was the worst in the NBA. Last season, the Knicks were at a deficit against teams when it came to steals and blocks. They were also lacking in assists, with 18.7 per contest, third least in the NBA. New York was first in the Atlantic division and fifth overall for technical fouls with 53. Thatâ€™s too many.

The Magic have added Lewis (22.4 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 2.4 APG), who is an accomplished shooting guard. Lewis joins a team that includes guard/forward Hedo Turkoglu (13.3 PPG, 4 RPG, 3.2 APG) and three-year swingman Dwight Howard (17.6 PPG, 12.3 RPG, 1.9 BPG). The 27-year old Lewis will help establish a veteran presence on the club.

Orlando, a team that made the playoffs last season with an under-500 record of 40- 42, will find it tough to do so this year with the Eastern Conference Celtics showing so much improvement. Last year, the Magic were the 8th seed. The Knickerbockers were 33- 49 in 2007. Randolf should help them improve but only disciplined play will really aid this club.