New York Knicks Receive: G T.J. McConnell, 2022 First-Round Pick (No. 6 – IND), 2024 First-Round Pick (Top 5 Protected – IND)
Indiana Pacers Receive: G/F RJ Barrett
The New York Knicks may not have any interest in parting with RJ Barrett. We understand that. With that said, the sixth overall pick might be enough to pique their interest.
It won’t be enough on its own. That’s why we’ve included the Pacers’ 2024 First-Round Pick for good measure. It’s top-five protected in the event of a disaster. Choosing this route, that’s the only thing that could stop this pick from falling outside of that range.
With this deal, the Pacers become one of the youngest and deepest teams in the National Basketball Association. They’ll be wanting for a true superstar, but a nucleus of Haliburton, Barrett, Turner, and a whole cast of quality rotation players will be enough to keep them competitive. Meanwhile, they’ll be young enough to bank on internal improvement.
This trade also affords both teams a little flexibility. The Knicks are spared making a decision on RJ Barrett’s rookie extension, which he’ll qualify for in 2022-23. They could move Julius Randle in a separate transaction and be off to a strong start for their rebuild.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: NBA Analyst Suggests Intriguing Pacers-Warriors Trade
The Pacers could decide theirs is finished, and look to move some of their many intriguing young, underdeveloped players in a separate trade for another low-level star.
