The New York Knicks have been talked about as the top potential trade destination for Houston Rockets superstar point guard Russell Westbrook. However, it does not appear that the franchise is actually that interested in acquiring Westbrook.
According to a report from Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated, the Knicks do not view trading for Westbrook as a priority. That doesn’t mean that they have zero interest in acquiring him.
Westbrook has not found much trade value after his reported request for a trade from the Rockets. It has been a bit sobering. Just a few short years ago, Westbrook was viewed as one of the top superstars in the game and many teams would have loved the opportunity to trade for him.
Last season with the Rockets, Westbrook was able to find a lot of success. He averaged 27.2 points per game to go along with 7.9 rebounds and 7.0 assists. Westbrook’s shooting numbers were concerning, however, at just 25.8 percent from the three-point line.
Looking closer at the situation with the Knicks, it will be interesting to see if this tune changes. New York has been reportedly interested in bringing Carmelo Anthony back in free agency. They have also been linked to Gordon Hayward.
Should the Knicks strike out on those two guys, could they turn their attention to acquiring Russell Westbrook? It seems likely that James Dolan has some level of interest in the superstar point guard.
If the Knicks truly are not interested in Westbrook, there are very few destinations left. The Charlotte Hornets were interested at one point, but they just snagged LaMelo Ball with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Outside of them, it’s hard to find a team with the need for a player like Westbrook.
All of that being said, it will be interesting to see what the rest of the offseason has in store for the Knicks and Rockets. Westbrook might just have to begin the season in Houston.
