All of the focus right now for the New York Knicks is on their series with the Cleveland Cavaliers, but the NBA offseason could have some major opportunities. They were able to take home-court advantage, winning Game 1 on the road, 101-97. It was a hard-fought, grind-it-out game for New York, who showcased they can win even when not operating at peak performance.
A big reason for the victory was the play of Jalen Brunson. After playing only nine minutes in the first half because of foul trouble, he took over the game in the second half. Many people questioned the free agent signing last summer, but Brunson has made it clear he can operate as a top option and lead a successful team.
While the Knicks are hoping their offseason won’t be getting underway any time soon, it is never too early to begin preparations. There are certain people within the organization who have already started laying the groundwork for potential transactions. You can expect the Knicks to once again go star hunting regardless of how this postseason plays out.
New York has a deep, talented roster that is full of young players already contributing at a high level. Combine that with the draft capital that the front office has built up and you have the recipe for swinging a blockbuster.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat & New York Knicks Updates
After missing out on Donovan Mitchell last summer, New York will look for another All-Star to add to the roster this offseason. One player to keep an eye on according to an NBA executive that spoke to NBA Analysis Network is Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat.
“The Knicks would like to go out and get Jimmy Butler this summer. I know that for sure. … He already has a history with [Tom] Thibodeau and would be a major upgrade on the wing. They have the pieces to make a good enough trade package to get him. Both sides want to win at a high level.”
We have seen head coach Tom Thibodeau really grow and adapt during the 2022-23 season. He made changes to the rotation when necessary, saving the Knicks’ season in early December after an embarrassing loss to the Dallas Mavericks. Adding a player he knows very well in Butler could help the team get over the top.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat & New York Knicks Updates
Butler is exactly what the Knicks need on the wing. He is an elite defender, forming a solid duo with either Quentin Grimes or RJ Barrett on that end of the court, depending on who is included in the package. With Mitchell Robinson as the last line of defense, New York would be able to get things back on track on that end of the floor after dipping to 19th this season.
Offensively, Butler would provide another reliable option along with Brunson and Julius Randle to carry the load. He had another excellent all-around season on that end of the floor, averaging 22.9 points and 5.3 assists per game.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat & New York Knicks Updates
Acquiring Butler would be an all-in move for the Knicks, as he is turning 34 years old in September. If the front office and ownership believe they are one player away from being able to contend for a championship, he would be a good fit as a much-needed upgrade on the wing.
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