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

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

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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Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) – New York Knicks /

2. Damian Lillard

The only player on this list who doesn’t at least partially become a free agent in 2023, Lillard would instantly turn the Knicks into the top contender in the Eastern Conference to win the NBA Finals.

A trade for Lillard would likely require either Brunson or Barrett, a prospect or two, and any leftover picks that weren’t used to bring in Mitchell.

In other words, it would require a massive haul of a trade package to land Lillard.

But if the Knicks are able to pair Dame Time with Spida and somehow keep Barrett and Robinson, it would make them instant favorites.

A backcourt of Lillard and Mitchell is something you can only hope to dream about. Lillard also just signed a contract extension through 2025, so he’s placing some level of long-term trust in the Trail Blazers’ ability to turn themselves into contenders.

No matter what, he’s the star New York should look into pursuing, no matter what it would take. Other veterans would come along to fill out the roster and the Knicks would have two future Hall of Famers working to carry them to a championship.

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