Key Takeaways:
– The New York Knicks have set their sights on a major trade this summer after failing to progress past the second round of the NBA Playoffs for two consecutive years.
– The team plans to make the trade before their roster becomes expensive next year.
– Potential trade targets could be Karl-Anthony Towns, Paul George, and Donovan Mitchell.
– The Knicks have eight available first-round and seven second-round picks to trade for a star.
The New York Knicks Eyeing Big Moves
Having been halted at the NBA playoffs’ second round for the second straight year, the New York Knicks are now considering a significant trade in the offseason. The planning for this major move appears to be strategic, as the Knicks’ roster may increase in cost significantly come next year. This information was reported by Fred Katz from The Athletic on Monday, May 20.
The Knicks’ Trading Strategy
As lucrative contract extensions become due this summer for Knicks’ star players Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle, the team is keen on striking a deal beforehand. Alongside Brunson and Randle, retaining top free agents OG Anunoby and Isaiah Hartenstein would push the team over the luxury threshold. Staying beneath this threshold seems to be a significant motivator behind the Knicks’ trading strategy.
Stockpiling Draft Picks for Star Trade
To streamline the high-cost issue, the Knicks have realized they need to add new star power to their roster. The team has eight tradable first-round picks and seven second picks, making them a contender to welcome a top player. Katz also specified some potential trade targets, stating, “the Knicks plan to inject themselves into the conversation.”
Big Names in the Basketball Sphere
The identities of these targets remain uncertain, but the names that have surfaced in trade conversations include Karl-Anthony Towns, Paul George, and Donovan Mitchell. Towns, in particular, seems to be a promising fit for the Knicks, showcasing his exceptional defense in the Timberwolves’ elimination of the Denver Nuggets.
Mitchell’s compatibility with Brunson on the backcourt raises eyebrows due to their lack of size. Meanwhile, George’s extensive injury history and his age- turning 35 next year- also pose questions. Furthermore, it appears that Mitchell is content in Cleveland, and George prefers to stay in his hometown, Los Angeles. However, Towns’ future in Minnesota remains ambiguous, leaving room for potential trades.
Impending Financial Decisions
Regardless of the Timberwolves’ playoff outcome, they’ll be looking at significant financial decisions this upcoming summer. The $204 million supermax contract for Anthony Edwards and the $136 million extension for Jaden McDaniels come to effect next season. With the salaries of Edwards, Towns, Rudy Gobert, and McDaniels crossing the approved cap space, the Timberwolves may need to shed significant salaries. Could Towns be the one to exit Minnesota amid these financial constraints?
The New York Knicks are primed to take this opportunity and improve their current roster. The team has several tradable picks, and Bojan Bogdanovic’s $19 million can serve as a helpful salary balance in any star trade. Achieving the $50 million matching salary for a star may require some maneuvering, but the Knicks are eager and ready for the challenge. As the offseason approaches, one thing is certain- the New York Knicks are on the lookout for their next big star.