Next year, the Knicks will pay Julius Randle $30.3 million, Mitchell Robinson $14.3 million and Bojan Bogdanovic $19 million. The need to unload this salary is paramount, including the potential loss of Shake Milton’s $5 million. Robinson’s injury concerns and the financial implications of his contract make him a prime candidate for inclusion in a trade package. This would free up significant financial resources, potentially allowing the Knicks to secure a star to pair with Brunson.
Speculation persists about the Knicks’ ability to sign LeBron James if he opts out of his contract with the Lakers, although fitting his substantial salary under the cap would require the Knicks to move several large contracts through the 2024-25 season.
Other potential acquisition targets include Lauri Markkanen of the Utah Jazz, although his defensive skills may not be a good fit for the Knicks’ needs. Alternatives could include high-profile players like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker or even DeMar DeRozan, who could still make valuable contributions.
Ultimately, team chemistry is a critical factor for the Knicks. Acquiring a star for its own sake is not a viable strategy. The Knicks need to be judicious about their trade decisions, ensuring that any major moves, including the potential dumping of Randle and multiple first-round picks, are made with the right player who can truly enhance the team’s championship aspirations.