For a team in desperate need of some star power, the New York Knicks have been shockingly unaggressive in trade talks involving two of the league’s biggest stars: Kevin Durant and Donovan Mitchell.
While the Durant pursuit is a long shot at the moment, The Athletic’s Shams Charania says the Knicks have re-emerged in the Donovan Mitchell sweepstakes.
Here is an excerpt from his latest article:
After several weeks of no conversations, the New York Knicks and Utah Jazz recently re-engaged in trade talks centered on Donovan Mitchell, league sources tell The Athletic.
The Knicks and Jazz had a fresh trade conversation within the past week about potential packages for Mitchell, according to sources. There is no traction between the two teams on a deal, and no Mitchell trade is imminent for the Jazz, sources said. The Charlotte Hornets and Washington Wizards are also among the teams pursuing Mitchell, those sources said.
Throughout trade talks, the Knicks have made their interest in Mitchell abundantly clear, one source with knowledge of the situation said. The Knicks and Jazz seriously discussed a Mitchell trade during the NBA’s Las Vegas Summer League in mid-July, but talks stalled out and led to nearly a month of inactivity between the sides. Now, with training camp just over one month away, the sides have re-ignited talks. Hurdles toward a deal remain.
While some obstacles still remain, the Knicks are doing the right thing by opening backup negotiations with Utah. Despite his flaws, especially on defense, Mitchell remains one of the most talented young stars in the league.
Unfortunately, the price for Mitch is still pretty high, and New York would have to give up multiple players and picks if they want to even come close to making an offer that might appeal to the Jazz.
For now, talks are still ongoing — but if the Knicks don’t close the deal on this soon, they could lose the chance to welcome a star-caliber player to the franchise.
