The New York Knicks have exceeded expectations this season as they sit comfortably among the likely playoff-bound teams. After all the down years the Knicks had endured, this is a welcoming sight for one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises. 

Head coach Tom Thibodeau is one of the reasons why the Knicks are playing so much better. And now that the trade deadline is fast approaching, fans and some analysts around the league are encouraging the Knicks to make moves to keep the roster competitive.

While no transactions have been made, Thibodeau implied that the Knicks are in no rush no to give up their young core for a veteran who can help the team come Playoff time, per Marc Berman of the New York Post.

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“It’s important for us to go step-by-step and not skip over things,’’ said Thibodeau. “The whole goal this year is to build a foundation and the right type of habits. Wherever that leads us, it leads us. Our players have responded. In this league, you’re always looking for player development first, then look at the draft and free agency, then trades. You never stop working in all four areas.’’

Thibodeau wants to focus on developing the Knicks' promising young core. It seems this mindset has been working for the Knicks, who currently have the third-best defensive rating this season. 

New York has an All-Star in Julius Randle. Randle, who is currently averaging 22.9 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. Randle’s rise to becoming an All-Star has been one of the many exciting things that have been going on for the squad.