While the New York Knicks have been floated in NBA trade rumors this summer for stars like Damian Lillard and Bradley Beal, the franchise never seemingly made a true effort to acquire either star. That’s reportedly not the case with Zion Williamson.
- Zion Williamson contract: $34.005 million salary in 2023-’24, $197.23 million over five seasons. 2028 free agent
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Williamson, entering his age-23 season, only played in 29 contests last season. He still remained an effective scorer, shooting 60.8 percent from the field and averaging 26 points per contest. However, poor durability and conditioning once again proved to be issues.
It’s put the 6-foot-6 forward’s future with New Orleans in question. While Williamson is one of the most talented players in the NBA, recurring injuries and reported immaturity have been sources of frustration for the Pelicans’ organization. Seeing an opportunity, it appears New Orleans tried to take advantage of that.
Appearing on The Knicks Recap podcast, Knicks’ reporter Marc Berman disclosed that New York checked in with New Orleans on Williamson’s availability this summer. While a deal didn’t materialize, the Pelicans reportedly still aren’t fully sold on Williamson long-term.
“New Orleans is still not sold on Zion Williamson. Obviously there’s a risk there, all eyes on him this season. I was told the Knicks checked in over the offseason about Zion. That could be a possibility.”
Marc Berman on New York Knicks’ interest in a Zion Williamson trade
While a trade didn’t happen, it’s another example of what the Knicks’ front office is looking for. In order for New York to trade its arsenal of future draft picks and young players, it wants to find a superstar it can pair with Jalen Brunson. However, the focus is on finding a young player whose career prime lines up with Brunson and makes them both long-term fixtures in New York.
- Zion Williamson stats (career): 25.8 PPG, 7 RPG, 3.6 APG, 60.5% FG
For the time being, New Orleans will keep Williamson. The Portland Trail Blazers reportedly checked in on his availability early this offseason, but the two sides never came close on a deal involving the No. 3 overall pick. As a result, Williamson will be with the Pelicans to open the regular season.
If New Orleans falls short of expectations by February and Williamson is still having issues, it’s possible he hits the trade block. The moment Williamson is made available by the Pelicans, it’s a safe bet the Knicks will be among the NBA teams pursuing a trade for him.
