Could Kevin Durant be headed to New York? As the Knicks continue to process their elimination at the hands of the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, analysts suggest that the team may revisit its pursuit of the 18-year NBA veteran-just as it did back in February.
Despite the Knicks still searching for a replacement for recently fired head coach Tom Thibodeau, fans and analysts are already speculating about who could bolster the team’s roster in its next attempt at reaching the NBA Finals.
With the league’s offseason approaching, some insiders believe that the Knicks and Phoenix Suns could orchestrate a blockbuster trade involving Durant. Additionally, ESPN insider Shams Charania revealed that this wouldn’t be the first time New York had inquired about the superstar forward.
The Knicks will continue their pursuit of Durant
Speaking on NBA Today, Charania noted, “There was mutual interest between the Knicks and Kevin Durant at the trade deadline. The Knicks made an offer for Durant at the deadline, but ultimately, no deal was made.”
Durant is currently in the third year of the $194 million contract he signed with the Suns in 2022. His deal includes a player option for one more season, which would cost Phoenix $54.7 million. A trade would free up significant roster space for the Suns’ new front office, led by general manager Brian Gregory and newly appointed head coach Jordan Ott.
A blockbuster deal that could involve Towns
Some analysts believe that if the Suns are willing to part ways with Durant, the Knicks would have to sweeten their offer-possibly by including Karl-Anthony Towns in the deal. The center is also in the third year of a four-year, $224 million contract with New York, which includes a player option.
While the potential deal is massive, it mirrors the Knicks’ pursuit of other marquee names, such as Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, whose $175 million contract extension runs through 2028.
Finding the perfect fit won’t be easy, but if the Knicks are serious about making a Finals run, they’ll have to make sacrifices-and open their checkbook.
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