Key Takeaways:
– Trade whisperings suggest Kevin Durant might join the Knicks in exchange for a Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson package.
– The trade also implies the Knicks sending Miles McBride, No.24 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft and future first rounders to the Suns.
– Randle and Robinson still have two seasons left on their respective deals while Durant’s contract is worth $194 million for the same.
– Though the Suns have shown no inclination to deal Durant yet, trade opportunities exist.
Are the New York Knicks Primed for a Game-Changing Trade?
Basketball’s rumor mill is in overdrive, with NBA crafting stories about a proposed deal which might possibly shift basketball giant, Kevin Durant, to the New York Knicks. In return, Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson would be trading their Knicks jersey for the Phoenix Suns uniform.
The deal also comes with a rookie favorite and picks for the future. It’s speculated that the Knicks plan to send the Suns a package which includes fan-favorite Miles McBride, the No. 24 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and two future first rounders (2025, 2028).
Knicks’ Major Deal and How It Shapes Their Team
Julius Randle, though hindered by injury during the playoffs, has had impressive back-to-back All-Star seasons. The star center’s contract still holds for another two seasons. Similarly, Mitchell Robinson, the high-jumping rim-protector has two seasons left on his contract as well.
In acquiring Durant, the Knicks would take on his rich four-year $194 million deal. That’s a sizeable $51.1 million cap hit for the 2024-25 season. With Jalen Brunson at the point, pairing him with Durant might prove to be a formidable move for the Knicks if the deal ensues.
Suns’ Response to Durant’s Proposed Trade
Despite the chatter, the Suns have shown no interest in parting ways with Durant. They are keen on maintaining their trio of Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. This steadfastness comes despite their payroll bulge resulting in zero playoff wins this season.
However, Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley observes, if a summer move happens, Durant seems like the most likely candidate. While losing Durant would be significant, gaining Randle, Robinson, and McBride along with three first-round picks could provide the Suns with ample opportunities for further improvement.
Durant’s Potential Impact on the Knicks
Regarded as a superstar, Kevin Durant famously shrugged off the Knicks in 2019 in favor of joining Kyrie Irving at the Brooklyn Nets, a move that did not yield much for Durant. His current performance, with an average of 27.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, 5 assists and 1.2 blocks per game, indicates that he still has lots to offer. Durant’s blend of dominance and experience might just be what the Knicks need to elevate their game.
Given Durant’s past injury issues, successful completion of last season with commendable figures reaffirms his strength and value. Though concerns linger about his longevity and consistency, Durant’s acquisition could be a game-changer for the Knicks. With the potential trade on the horizon, the Knicks have their sights set high. The prospective new team addition could send shockwaves through NBA, leading to an exciting, unpredictable season.