The New York Knicks likely understand that if they want to trade for a high-profile player, they must part ways with significant value. Ranging from young talent to draft selections, the Knicks have plenty of assets to allocate in such a trade plot, but they have to establish boundaries.
Of course, if Portland Trailblazers point guard Damian Lillard forces his way out, the Knicks will be in the conversation, depending on the price tag. Their draft selections are undoubtedly up for grabs in this theoretical situation, and several young pieces could be considered trade bait as well, but one player they should hold onto for the long term is Canadian-born guard RJ Barrett.
Conflicting reports indicate different Knicks front office opinions on trading away RJ Barrett:
One other note: People in touch with the Knicks recently came away with the impression that New York had little interest in including Barrett in any trades.
Unless the Knicks are in line to acquire a big name, Barrett’s name shouldn’t even be mentioned, and even so, they still have the 21-year-old under contract for three more seasons before he becomes a restricted free agent in 2024.
In a Lillard trade, the Knicks don’t want to have their roster ransacked but likely are willing to give up three of their future first-round picks. RJ Barrett is not considered an untouchable in a deal for a superstar, according to a source.
Clearly, there’s a conflict between these two reports; trading Barrett would make the team worse. Ultimately, he would just be one piece of a massive puzzle to acquire a player like Lillard, completely ransacking the roster for a player who will take up the majority of their salary space anyway.
Barrett took a massive developmental jump last year, averaging 17.6 points, 3.0 assists, 5.8 rebounds, and shot 44% from the field. He also increased his three-point percentage from 32% to 40% in one season, attesting to his growth. He started in all 72 games, averaging 34.9 minutes per contest.
If he continues on this trend, Barrett could end up being a bonafide star in the future, and risking that reality for one player on a monster contract could be a massive mistake.
What do you consider trading Barrett for a superstar? Comment below!
