ESPN’s Shams Charania dropped a bombshell last Tuesday when he reported that the New York Knicks were closer than many realize to completing a blockbuster trade for a two-time MVP.
Of course, nothing happened in the end, but it’s still fascinating that the franchise was secretly cooking up a franchise-altering deal.
“The (Milwaukee) Bucks picked up the Knicks’ call on (Giannis) Antetokounmpo, and the sides engaged in conversations for a window of time in August, but the teams never got traction on a deal,” Charania wrote.
While the Knicks were unsuccessful in their summer pursuit of Antetokounmpo, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz thinks that the organization could land the 2021 NBA Finals MVP this season by trading OG Anunoby.
“The New York Knicks are good enough as-is to compete for a title this season, although that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo if the Milwaukee Bucks decide to shop him,” Swartz wrote.
“With so many high-salary players, a swap for Antetokounmpo and his $54.1 million contract number would be easier to pull off for the Knicks than most teams.”
“A third franchise would likely need to be involved, with Karl-Anthony Towns or OG Anunoby headed to a contender who would then send young players and picks back to the Bucks.”
Considering the Knicks reached the Eastern Conference Finals without Antetokounmpo on the roster, there’s no question the Knicks’ ceiling would be astronomically high with the nine-time All-Star in the fold.
Antetokounmpo has done his best to help Milwaukee prevail in the postseason lately, efficiently pouring in 23+ points per game on three occasions following their 2021 championship run.
However, the 30-year-old’s dynamic play on the hardwood has been far from rewarding, as his supporting cast hasn’t done him any favors under the bright lights (injuries have also played a factor in the franchise’s disappointing playoff performances).
Assuming Antetokounmpo is tired of his heroic efforts going to waste, it would be in his best interest to consider forcing his way to New York before the Feb 5 trade deadline.
Unlike the Bucks, the Knicks are headed in a positive direction, and with Jalen Brunson being arguably the most clutch player in the league, it’s even more apparent why high-level assets are frequently interested in taking their talents to New York.
Expect Antetokounmpo to be linked to the Knicks for the next few months.
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