5. New York Knicks
If there is a big name player in free agency or on the trading block, the Knicks are always mentioned— even though they tend to almost strikeout each chance they get. The Knicks have pieces to pull off a trade if they were to pursue a star trade, though.
Karl-Anthony Towns grew up in Edison, New Jersey, and went to St. Joe’s Metuchen before attending Kentucky. He grew up a Knicks’ fan in the area and it would be a nice homecoming. New York would have to give up a ton in this deal.
It would require at least two first-round picks along with some young players. Names like R.J. Barrett and Julius Randle come to mind. No team is going to take Dennis Smith Jr. or Frank Ntilikina.
There is a connection between Towns and Tom Thibodeau from their mutual time with the Timberwolves. Could this help or hurt the Knicks? It just seems like a deal that would never be made. The Knicks’ plan is unknown and they would have to decide between rebuilding through the draft or immediately through free agency.