The New York Knicks have been a team on the rise throughout the 2023-24 NBA season. With acquisitions like OG Anunoby and Bojan Bogdanovic bolstering their roster, and the leadership of Jalen Brunson guiding them to the fifth spot in the Eastern Conference, the Knicks are poised to make waves during the upcoming offseason. With a solid set of assets and resources at their disposal, the Big Apple franchise has the opportunity to attract high-caliber players in their quest to further strengthen their roster and contend for the title. Here are five stars who could land at Madison Square Garden this summer.
Donovan Mitchell
Potential Trade Offer For Donovan Mitchell: Josh Hart, Bojan Bogdanovic, 2024 First-Round Pick (Pistons), 2025 First-Round Pick (Bucks), 2027 First-Round Pick
The New York Knicks have long had their sights set on Donovan Mitchell, with rumors swirling that the star guard may not re-sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers unless they make a deep playoff run this year. The Knicks were close to acquiring Mitchell back in 2022 before his departure from Utah to Cleveland. Now, with Mitchell potentially on the move again, New York sees an opportunity to land the dynamic scorer they’ve coveted for so long.
In this hypothetical trade scenario, the Knicks are offering a package centered around Josh Hart, Bojan Bogdanovic, and multiple future first-round picks. Hart, known for his tenacity on both ends of the floor, provides solid rebounding and playmaking skills, averaging 9.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game in the previous season. Meanwhile, Bogdanovic, acquired from Detroit at the trade deadline, adds scoring punch off the bench, averaging 10.3 points per game in his limited time with the Knicks.
The inclusion of multiple future first-round picks sweetens the deal for the Cavaliers, providing them with valuable assets for their rebuild. However, the centerpiece of the trade remains Donovan Mitchell, whose offensive firepower and playmaking abilities would instantly elevate the Knicks’ backcourt.
Mitchell’s impressive stat line of 26.5 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game in the 2023-24 season underscores his impact on the court. His ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates would complement the playmaking of Jalen Brunson and the scoring prowess of Julius Randle, forming a formidable trio for the Knicks.
Moreover, Mitchell’s versatility and defensive tenacity would bolster New York’s perimeter defense, providing a much-needed boost on that end of the floor. His ability to thrive in clutch moments and lead by example could also galvanize the team, instilling a winning mentality within the Knicks’ locker room.
Overall, the potential acquisition of Donovan Mitchell represents a significant opportunity for the New York Knicks to solidify their position as contenders in the Eastern Conference. With the right supporting cast around him, Mitchell could help lead the Knicks to new heights and reignite the passion of the fanbase at Madison Square Garden.
Mikal Bridges
Potential Trade Offer For Mikal Bridges: Bogdan Bogdanovic, Jericho Sims, 2024 First-Round Pick (Mavericks), 2025 First-Round Pick (Bucks), 2027 First-Round Pick
The Brooklyn Nets are eyeing a rebuild centered around Mikal Bridges, a versatile wing player who will enter the offseason at 28 years old. Despite not being an All-Star, Bridges brings a well-rounded skill set and invaluable experience to the table, making him an attractive target for teams looking to bolster their roster. With just two years left on his contract and the Nets unlikely to contend during that time frame, Brooklyn should be open to entertaining offers for Bridges.
For the New York Knicks, the potential acquisition of Bridges presents an intriguing opportunity to add a talented player who could seamlessly fit into their lineup. Not only does Bridges boast impressive statistics, averaging 19.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game in the previous season, but his defensive prowess and basketball IQ make him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor.
Furthermore, the connections between Bridges and several Knicks players, including Donte DiVincenzo, Josh Hart, and Jalen Brunson, who are all Villanova alumni, could play a significant role in enticing Bridges to join New York. The prospect of reuniting with former teammates and forming a formidable starting lineup alongside Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Mitchell Robinson could be enticing for Bridges.
In this proposed trade scenario, the Knicks are offering Bogdan Bogdanovic, Jericho Sims, and multiple future first-round picks to the Nets in exchange for Bridges. Bogdanovic provides scoring punch off the bench, while Sims offers potential as a young prospect. The inclusion of future first-round picks sweetens the deal for the Nets, providing them with assets to facilitate their rebuild.
For the Knicks, Bridges would bring much-needed versatility and defensive prowess to their lineup. His ability to score, facilitate, and defend multiple positions would complement the skill sets of his teammates and elevate the overall competitiveness of the team. With Bridges in the fold, the Knicks could boast a formidable starting lineup and a deep bench, positioning them as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Paul George
Potential Trade Offer For Paul George: Bojan Bogdanovic, Donte DiVincenzo, Alec Burks, 2024 First-Round Pick (Mavericks), 2025 First-Round Pick (Bucks), 2026 First-Round Pick
Paul George’s uncertain future with the Los Angeles Clippers has sparked speculation about a potential trade, especially if the team falls short of expectations in the current season. With a player option worth $48.7 million for the 2024-25 season, George could opt into his contract or explore other options, including a sign-and-trade scenario. This possibility becomes more plausible if the Clippers fail to advance deep into the playoffs, potentially prompting George to seek a fresh start elsewhere.
For the New York Knicks, the addition of Paul George could have a significant impact on both ends of the floor. George’s impressive stat line of 22.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game in the 2023-24 season underscores his ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game. As a versatile wing scorer and capable playmaker, George would provide the Knicks with another dynamic offensive weapon to complement the scoring prowess of Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle.
Moreover, George’s defensive acumen would bolster New York’s perimeter defense, adding another layer of versatility and toughness to their lineup. His ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses would be invaluable, particularly in playoff matchups against elite competition.
The proposed trade package to the Clippers includes Bojan Bogdanovic, Donte DiVincenzo, Alec Burks, and multiple future first-round picks. Bogdanovic brings scoring and floor-spacing ability, while DiVincenzo adds outside shooting and defensive intensity. Burks provides depth off the bench, and the inclusion of future first-round picks sweetens the deal for the Clippers, providing them with assets to facilitate their roster rebuild.
If George were to join the Knicks, he would slot into the starting lineup alongside Brunson, OG Anunoby, Julius Randle, and Mitchell Robinson, forming a formidable core that could compete with the best teams in the Eastern Conference. His veteran leadership and playoff experience would be invaluable for a young Knicks team looking to make a deep postseason run.
Zion Williamson
Potential Trade Offer For Zion Williamson: Julius Randle, Josh Hart, 2024 First-Round Pick (Pistons), 2026 First-Round Pick
The pursuit of Zion Williamson by the New York Knicks dates back to the 2019 NBA Draft when he was their coveted target. However, circumstances led them to select RJ Barrett as third overall instead. With the New Orleans Pelicans seemingly out of true contention and rumors swirling about Zion’s injury concerns and weight issues, the Knicks may have a prime opportunity to acquire him at a reasonable cost.
In this potential trade scenario, the Knicks are offering Julius Randle, Josh Hart, and multiple future first-round picks to the Pelicans in exchange for Zion Williamson. Randle, who previously played for the Pelicans, brings scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities to the table. Hart, another former Pelican, adds defensive tenacity and versatility on the wing. The inclusion of future first-round picks sweetens the deal for the Pelicans, providing them with assets for their rebuild.
For the Knicks, the addition of Zion Williamson would be a game-changer. Despite his injury woes, Zion has shown immense potential, averaging 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game in the current season. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill would instantly make him the focal point of the Knicks’ offense, providing them with a dynamic scoring threat and playmaker.
Moreover, Zion’s presence in the frontcourt alongside OG Anunoby and Mitchell Robinson would give the Knicks a formidable inside-out duo, capable of dominating the paint and stretching the floor. His ability to attack the rim with force and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates would open up new dimensions in the Knicks’ offensive scheme.
However, there are risks involved in acquiring Zion, particularly regarding his injury history and conditioning concerns. The Knicks would need to implement a comprehensive plan to manage his workload and ensure his long-term health and fitness. Additionally, the departure of Randle and Hart would leave voids in the Knicks’ lineup that would need to be addressed through other acquisitions or internal development.
In conclusion, acquiring Zion Williamson presents the New York Knicks with a golden opportunity, albeit one accompanied by inherent risks. Successfully integrating him into the team while addressing concerns about his health and conditioning could pave the way for a resurgence of the franchise. If managed effectively, Zion has the potential to become the linchpin of the Knicks’ future success, propelling them to prominence within the league once again.
Zach LaVine
Potential Trade Offer For Zach LaVine: Bojan Bogdanovic, Mitchell Robinson, 2025 First-Round Pick
Bringing Zach LaVine to the New York Knicks could be a game-changer, addressing their need for perimeter scoring alongside Jalen Brunson. LaVine’s prowess as a pure scorer adds a dynamic dimension to the Knicks’ offense, filling a crucial gap in their lineup. Despite his season-ending foot injury in January, LaVine is expected to return to full health by the offseason, ready to make an impact for his new team.
In this potential trade scenario with the Chicago Bulls, the Knicks are offering Bojan Bogdanovic, Mitchell Robinson, and a future first-round pick. While Robinson’s defensive presence and rebounding have been valuable, the emergence of Isaiah Hartenstein and Jericho Sims has solidified the Knicks’ frontcourt rotation, making Robinson expendable in pursuit of a high-caliber scorer like LaVine.
LaVine’s stat line of 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game in the 2023-24 season underscores his ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game. His scoring ability, especially from beyond the arc, would alleviate pressure on Brunson and Julius Randle, opening up opportunities for them to excel in their respective roles.
Moreover, LaVine’s athleticism and playmaking skills add versatility to the Knicks’ offense, allowing for more creative and dynamic plays. His ability to create his own shot and finish at the rim would diversify the Knicks’ scoring options and keep opposing defenses on their toes.
The potential partnership between LaVine, Brunson, and Randle forms a formidable trio that could lead the Knicks to success in the Eastern Conference. LaVine’s scoring prowess complements Brunson’s playmaking and Randle’s inside-out game, creating a well-rounded offensive attack that opponents would struggle to contain.
