It’s unlikely we’ll see the Knicks play another game this season. Even if they do, it won’t mean all that much. With a 21-45 record and a 12th place standing in the East, there’s really no hope of them making any kind of significant run.
But it doesn’t mean they can’t get better for the next campaign and, word on the street is, they’re already mulling their options.
In an article by Bleacher Report, they explained the possibility of the Knicks using their young guard RJ Barrett to bring in an established veteran star.
With new team president Leon Rose taking over the front office, will the Knicks be patient and grow the team around Barrett, Mitchell Robinson and the seven first-round picks they own over the next four drafts? Or will they use those picks and players to go after an established star?
In reference to trading for a star, one Knicks front office member recently told SNY’s Ian Begley, “It’s the best path for us.”
While some Knicks fans may view Barrett as untouchable, the Los Angeles Clippers pulled a similar move last summer when they traded point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a deal for Paul George.
They also gave a list of potential targets.
As an agent, Rose represented Karl-Anthony Towns, Devin Booker and Joel Embiid, all of whom are currently on losing or underperforming teams. Bradley Beal, DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, Jrue Holiday and Rudy Gobert could all become available in the coming months or years as well.
Acquiring any one of those players would put the Knicks in a great position. As great as RJ has looked, he has yet to prove he can sustain an All-Star level of play.
Getting one big name is key to getting more and the hope is that the Knicks can find one soon so they can finally turn things around.
Of course, when it comes to the Knicks, you best not hold your breath.
