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5 stars Donovan Mitchell could attract to NY if he’s traded to Knicks

By Mat Mlodzinski

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - MARCH 31: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz looks on during the second half of a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Vivint Smart Home Arena on March 31, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - MARCH 31: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz looks on during the second half of a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Vivint Smart Home Arena on March 31, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /
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Kristaps Porzingis, New York Knicks
Kristaps Porzingis, New York Knicks. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

5. Kristaps Porzingis

A Knicks reunion? Don’t count it out.

Porzingis was drafted by New York, where he played for three full seasons. The Unicorn peaked in his third year with the Knicks, averaging 22.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks.

The 26-year-old has a player option in 2023-24 with the Washington Wizards. If he doesn’t pick it up, he’ll become a free agent. If Porzingis does take the $36,016,200, he’ll become an unrestricted free agent in 2024.

Due to injury concerns, Porzingis’ worth has dipped since being traded to the Dallas Mavericks and then again to the Wizards. Although he’s hitting his prime years, the seven-footer has only hit the court in 94 regular-season games over the past two seasons. His chances of signing a deal in the $35 million per year range are far-fetched.

However, he’s still a unique talent who can stretch the floor as a three-point threat and wreak havoc down low.

Knicks management has also changed since Porzingis was traded, so as far as that goes, all bridges may not totally be burned just yet.

Personally, I think it would be in the best interest of Porzingis’ career for him to take the player option. Another injury could scare any NBA team from ever offering him another multi-year deal. However, if he just wants to get out of Washington, heading back up I-95 to New York City might not be the worst idea.

The Knicks are already rumored to be in the mix for a Russell Westbrook-Julius Randle deal. That would be a move to clear up cap space for another big-name free agent in 2023. Porzingis would still come at a high cost, but he could come along with another big name if the salary cap will allow for that to happen.

And, just imagine a lineup that features Donovan Mitchell, RJ Barrett, and Porzingis. That would be deadly.

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