BREAKING: Knicks Confirms $215 Million Superstar as key NBA Trade Target
The New York Knicks may be compiling a list of potential trade targets for future NBA offseasons. The Athletic’s Fred Katz recently highlighted some potential long-term targets for the Knicks, emphasizing that these players may not be immediately available but are worth keeping an eye on.
One notable name is Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker. As the Suns grapple with a bloated payroll and underwhelming results, Booker emerges as a prime candidate should he ever become available. Katz described Booker as an “obvious name” for the Knicks to pursue.
“Booker, if Phoenix ever chose to trade him, would become the obvious name for the Knicks,” Katz wrote in a June 17, 2024 story titled, “Devin Booker? Brandon Ingram? Which stars could the Knicks target and how would they fit?” He noted that Booker fits the superstar profile the Knicks covet, having been in the top four in MVP voting and making two All-NBA teams. At only 27, Booker is in his prime and, importantly, he is a client of Creative Artists Agency (CAA), the same agency Knicks president Leon Rose once ran.
Given the Suns’ current situation, Booker’s potential availability could align well with the Knicks’ strategy to add a proven superstar to their roster.
There Are Salary Cap Complications to the Knicks Landing Devin Booker in an NBA Trade With the Suns
Phoenix is not expected to hit the reset button this offseason, but things could change in 2025 if the franchise continues to underperform. Devin Booker’s four-year, $221 million contract runs through the 2027-28 season. Despite the potential for change, trading Booker involves significant challenges due to both Phoenix’s likely reluctance and the salary cap complications that make a deal with New York unlikely.
“Devin Booker, if Phoenix ever chose to trade him, would become the obvious name for the Knicks.”
— @FredKatz pic.twitter.com/uxTpT5jEMn
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) June 17, 2024
Fred Katz elaborated on these complications, noting, “As the basketball world obsesses over how soaring past the second apron can damage a team’s flexibility, the first apron is changed, too. Now, if a team is above the first apron, it cannot take in more money than it gives out in a trade — and that rule will make it nearly impossible for two teams above the first apron to make trades directly with each other.
“It would take the Knicks tearing down their roster for them to avoid going above the first apron next summer.”
This means that for the Knicks to realistically pursue Booker, they would need to significantly restructure their roster to comply with the financial restrictions, making such a trade a complex and potentially long-term endeavor.
Julius Randle Remains the Knicks’ Biggest Trade Chip
Devin Booker, a four-time All-Star, has established himself as one of the NBA’s premier scorers. Last season, he averaged 27.1 points, 6.9 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game while shooting 36.4% from long range in 68 starts. His impressive resume makes him an attractive target for the New York Knicks, should he become available.
Devin Booker walks through his game winning shot against the Knicks in MSG🗽🍎
— 𝒟ℯ𝓁𝓊𝓈𝒾ℴ𝓃𝒶𝓁 𝒮𝓅ℴ𝓇𝓉𝓈 𝒻𝒶𝓃 (@Hoopsfan800) March 6, 2024
If the Knicks front office aims to keep their Villanova core intact, Julius Randle stands out as their most significant trade asset. Randle played in just 46 games during the 2023-24 season due to a season-ending shoulder injury, missing the Knicks’ deep playoff run. Despite his injury, Randle’s value remains high given his previous All-Star performance and his potential to contribute significantly when healthy.
Balancing the financial and roster implications, any pursuit of Booker would likely involve significant roster restructuring. However, leveraging Randle in a trade could provide the Knicks with the necessary flexibility and assets to potentially acquire a player of Booker’s caliber.
"I could see it happening… but there's not a push to trade Julius Randle"
– @FredKatz of @TheAthletic on where the 2x All-Star factors in the Knicks offseason plans pic.twitter.com/TqlPfT0upJ
— x-Knicks Film School (@KnickFilmSkool) May 25, 2024
It’s important to note that Julius Randle has made two consecutive All-Star teams and earned three nominations in the last four years, highlighting his value. However, Randle could become a free agent in 2025. He has two seasons left on his four-year, $117 million contract, but a player option could allow him to hit free agency next offseason.
This situation presents a challenge for the New York Knicks. They must decide whether to explore potential trades for Randle or opt to sign him to a contract extension to secure his services long-term. Given his significant contributions and All-Star performances, Randle’s future will play a crucial role in the Knicks’ strategic planning, especially if they consider pursuing high-profile targets like Devin Booker.