The Knicks were pitched as a surprise landing spot for LeBron James.
There have already been numerous reports about what the New York Knicks may do with their roster this offseason. After being defeated in the second round by the Indiana Pacers, some believe New York must make a splash. Could LeBron James be in their future?
Several experienced players have been identified as potential trade targets for the Knicks. Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, Mikal Bridges, and Donovan Mitchell are all linked in some way. Paul George might be a free agent target.
However, according to Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report, the Knicks could be an unexpected destination for LeBron James. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar is slated to enter free agency this summer, and all indicators lead to a return to the purple and gold. Swartz believes that if he accepts offers from other organizations, New York will be a surprise.
“New York won’t have the cap capacity to sign James outright unless he accepts a significant pay cut, which would require him to exercise his $51.4 million player option and persuade the Los Angeles Lakers to transfer him to the Knicks.
To match James’ salary, the Knicks may offer a package that includes Julius Randle, Bojan Bogdanović, and Miles McBride. The Lakers would receive a mix of youthful and veteran players in exchange. They also have two first-round picks in this year’s draft, up to four in the following year’s draft, and all of their own first-round picks heading forward, which they might use to sweeten their offer,” Swartz said.
Swartz took notice of the Knicks’ draft capital. That may make them a viable destination for Bronny James in the 2024 NBA Draft, putting the father-son combo on the same roster.
New York has demonstrated the ability to develop players in recent years and might be a good fit for the USC product. If the troubles between CAA and Klutch are overcome, the Knicks would make a lot of sense.
Unfortunately, it is difficult to picture New York as real players for LeBron James. Their summer should be centered on getting players healthy, as they currently have enough in place to be viable contenders. Sacrificing so many assets for LeBron James would be dangerous, especially given Julius Randle’s many All-Star and All-NBA performances. Adding him to the roster would radically alter their outlook.
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