The Knicks have been trying to put a star in Madison Square Garden since Carmelo Anthony left, and while Jalen Brunson has revitalized basketball in Manhattan, it’s not enough to take the Knicks to the promised land. Last summer, the Knicks couldn’t land Mitchell, but it wasn’t for lack of trying. They have a stash of draft picks and young tradeable players, including RJ Barrett, Obi Toppin and Immanuel Quickley.
Joel Embiid is already linked to the Knicks, the situation with Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee is uncertain, and who knows what Boston will do with Jaylen Brown. Much of this will require the Knicks to be patient, but when the time is right, they’ll be in a solid position to make a meaningful play.