New York Knicks rumors are swirling regarding the team’s interest in trading for a variety of perennial All-Star selections this summer to improve their championship hopes next season. However, one potential target reportedly doesn’t want to play for New York.
When the NBA offseason began, NBA trade rumors connected the Knicks to reigning NBA MVP center Joel Embiid and one-time champion Giannis Antetokounmpo. New York assembled a wealth of draft assets and young players to pursue a blockbuster trade.
Related: Chicago Bulls’ asking price for Zach LaVine trade revealed
However, Embiid will not be available with James Harden expected to re-sign with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Milwaukee Bucks won’t entertain moving Antetokounmpo. So, New York has pivoted to its secondary targets.
With the New Orleans Pelicans keeping Zion Williamson and Bradley Beal off the market, the Knicks have been connected to Zach LaVine and Paul George. While both players have been put on the trade block, it appears at least one of them isn’t interested in being traded to New York.
- Zach LaVine stats (2022-’23): 24.8 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 4.2 APG, 48.5% FG, .123 WS/48
According to Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News, LaVine’s representatives have zero interest in being traded to the Knicks. While New York has the assets to acquire LaVine and he doesn’t have a no-trade clause, his opposition to playing for the franchise would likely rule out a trade.
LaVine’s opposition to playing for New York is reportedly tied to the front office. According to people Bondy spoke with, the issue is tied to former CAA agent Leon Rose. The Knicks’ president has a history of favoritism with CAA clients, in the eyes of LaVine’s agent Rich Paul.
It would leave George as the top trade target left for New York, but Los Angeles hasn’t fully committed to moving him. With Kawhi Leonard returning next year, there remains interest in running it back with the star duo.
If that happens, New York would likely need to reset expectations. Barring the unexpected availability of Williamson, Jaylen Brown or Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks will likely have to just hold onto their assets and wait for the next NBA star to demand a trade.