In the midst of the buzz surrounding the OG Anunoby extension and the Mikal Bridges trade, the New York Knicks find themselves in the spotlight once again. Despite having some of the best contracts in the NBA currently, with Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Donte DiVincenzo all locked in at reasonable salaries, there are rumblings of discontent among podcasters and NBA Twitter regarding the Knicks’ offseason moves.
Analysts and writers have been vocal about the possibility of Julius Randle being on the trade block, but sources close to the team insist that Randle is not going anywhere. Even so, the clamor for a blockbuster trade persists, with names like Karl-Anthony Towns, Jalen Duren, and Alperen Sengun being floated around as potential targets.
The Knicks face a dilemma regarding these trades, especially considering the implications for their salary cap. Towns, in particular, comes with a hefty price tag of $220.4 million over four years, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league. Critics point out that Towns has struggled to replicate his regular-season success in the playoffs, raising doubts about his fit with the team.
On the other hand, Sengun presents a different set of challenges for the Knicks. As a restricted free agent next offseason, signing him to a long-term deal could put a strain on the team’s finances. Additionally, Sengun’s offensive-oriented style may not align with the Knicks’ defensive identity, potentially disrupting the team’s chemistry.
Beyond the financial considerations, the Knicks would have to part ways with valuable assets to acquire a star player. The Mikal Bridges trade already cost them five first-round picks, and a move for Towns or Sengun would require additional sacrifices in terms of key players and future draft picks. Despite the allure of adding a marquee player to the roster, the cost may be too high for the Knicks to justify.
Donte DiVincenzo and Josh Hart, in particular, have emerged as key contributors for the Knicks, with DiVincenzo making a case for Most Improved Player last season and Hart showcasing his rebounding prowess. Losing either of these players in a trade could have a ripple effect on the team’s performance and chemistry.
In the end, the Knicks face a difficult decision as they weigh the potential benefits of a blockbuster trade against the risks and costs involved. While the allure of adding a star player to their roster is strong, the team must carefully consider the long-term implications and whether the trade-off is worth it in the end.
