The New York Knicks boast one of the NBA’s strongest rosters, anchored by All-Stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. However, they remain a step below elite teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics. To bridge the gap and compete at the highest level, they may need to make key adjustments in the offseason.
ESPN mock trade has the Knicks landing Kevin Durant for two key players
One potential superstar target for the Knicks is Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant. With the Suns struggling through a disappointing season, there is growing speculation that they may look to trade Durant this summer, creating an opportunity for New York to make a blockbuster move.
ESPN’s André Snellings proposed a mock trade that would send Kevin Durant to the Knicks in exchange for OG Anunoby and Mitchell Robinson.
“In this deal, the Knicks get Durant after missing out to their crosstown rivals six years ago. The Knicks’ offense is strong but relies heavily on Jalen Brunson to create opportunities for others. Durant, one of the greatest scorers in NBA history, would ease that burden and form a highly efficient offensive trio with Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns,” Snellings explained.
Durant is still one of the best players in the league
Even at 36 years old, Kevin Durant remains one of the NBA’s elite players. This season with the Suns, he is averaging 26.9 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while continuing to be one of the league’s most prolific and efficient shot-makers.
Adding Durant to the Knicks would completely transform their offense. Pairing him with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns could create one of the most dangerous Big 3s in the league, giving New York a legitimate chance at building one of the most explosive offenses in NBA history.
However, in Snellings’ proposed trade, the Knicks would have to part with their two best defenders, OG Anunoby and Mitchell Robinson. Anunoby, who was acquired last season, made such a significant defensive impact that New York rewarded him with a five-year, $212 million contract to keep him in the fold.
The Knicks would be moving two big contracts in this mock trade
Robinson, meanwhile, has struggled with injuries throughout his career, missing the first 58 games of this season while recovering from offseason ankle surgery. When healthy, he is an elite offensive rebounder and shot-blocker, but his inconsistent availability has been a major setback for the Knicks.
Financially, both Anunoby’s and Robinson’s contracts (four years, $60 million) would help balance the salary in a potential Durant trade. Moving Robinson’s contract could also give the Knicks more flexibility to make additional roster moves.
With a crucial offseason ahead, the Knicks are expected to be active in pursuing star talent, and Durant could be at the center of their plans. It remains to be seen if they can pull off another blockbuster trade to build a powerhouse offense.
