The New York Knicks could go from being one of the least desired landing spots to one of the most desired in one season. This past off-season, there was no chance the Knicks were going to land a superstar, let alone a star player worth building around.
However, new head coach Tom Thibodeau has completely revitalized the team, injecting discipline and accountability into not only the players but the coaching staff as well.
President Leon Rose has had his eye on multiple players, as league executives believe stars will not only be knocking on the door in free agency but trying to force their way via trade to the Knicks. Several names have been linked to the organization as of late, including Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns, Wizards guard Bradley Beal, and Chicago Bulls sharpshooter Zach LaVine.
I say within the next 12 months a star slash superstar player demands a trade to New York. And I don’t know who it’s going to be. I have some guesses. I’m not going to say right here. I’ll let you guys start thinking about that. Let’s just put it this way: League executives certainly have some guesses. And I say by next year’s trade deadline a player – a superstar, All-Star player – tries to force his way there.
The Knicks have a ton of assets to utilize in a potential trade, including ample cap space and two additional first-round picks in the coming years. Draft selections are always a valuable commodity, but they also have players to part ways with if they need to push a trade over the edge.
Whether it be Kevin Knox, Austin Rivers, or even point guard Frank Ntilikina, they have expendable pieces that teams will likely value.
It is quite interesting to see how the Knicks couldn’t even attract a rumor from a star and are now in the conversation to have multiple bang on their door. That is what happens when you have a solid coaching staff that is curating wins.
The Knicks are currently .500 on the year, and star Julius Randle has proven to be a productive player who can hold down the fort until they pair him with an adequate scorer. Consistency is key, and the Knicks are picking up steam, but they still have to prove they can beat above-average teams before superstars begin forcing their way.