Kofi Inkoom
The New York Knicks are actively searching for a star player, but this pursuit may extend for another one to two years.
In today’s NBA, star players often become available, and the Knicks’ front office is patiently awaiting the right opportunity.
One potential candidate for a trade is Joel Embiid, although sources have mentioned that he has given the franchise assurances that he is willing to endure the ongoing drama involving James Harden.
However, the duration of Embiid’s patience remains uncertain, and with training camp approaching, the Harden situation could become more problematic.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is another star player who should be on the Knicks’ radar, especially after he made vague comments about his future in Milwaukee.
If the Knicks had to choose between Antetokounmpo and Embiid, the preference would undoubtedly lean toward the two-time MVP.
Donovan Mitchell is eligible to sign an extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers, but it is unlikely to occur before the start of the 2023-24 season.
The pressure will be on the Cavaliers to make a strong playoff run next year, or else the star guard could once again become a topic of trade discussions next summer.
It is believed that he still has a desire to play for the Knicks, the team he thought might acquire him last year.
Bill Simmons’ Assurance
Bill Simmons, during his podcast , confidently projected that within the coming year, one of these three players, Giannis, Embiid, or Mitchell will become a part of the New York Knicks organization.
“They’ll get one of those three guys, I guarantee. Giannis, Embiid, or Mitchell will be on that team a year from now.”
Bill Simmons further forecasted that Donovan Mitchell will likely leave Cleveland within the year, a prediction with reasonable validity.
Last summer, New York refrained from meeting Danny Ainge’s trade demands for Mitchell, a stance that could prove astute if they acquire him next offseason at a more favorable price than what the Cavaliers paid.
Among players potentially switching teams, Mitchell appears to be the most likely candidate, with Embiid following, and then Antetokounmpo.
While the Knicks obtaining Antetokounmpo could be a transformative move for the franchise, it’s worth considering that his remarks might have been aimed at applying pressure on the Bucks.
His impact has elevated Milwaukee’s status beyond that of a small-market team, and it wouldn’t be surprising if he remained with the Bucks throughout his career.
Simmons characterized the Embiid situation in Philadelphia as an unfolding disaster, with the worst yet to come.
Harden has already criticized Daryl Morey and declared his relationship with the organization irreparable, setting the stage for a potentially tumultuous training camp which is barely three weeks away.