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Ranking players linked to the Knicks in trade rumors ahead of deadline

By Zachary Bachar

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 23: Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls in action against the New York Knicks during the second half at Madison Square Garden on December 23, 2022 in New York City. 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 Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 23: Zach LaVine #8 of the Chicago Bulls in action against the New York Knicks during the second half at Madison Square Garden on December 23, 2022 in New York City. 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 Adam Hunger/Getty Images) /
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New York Knicks, Toronto Raptors, OG Anunoby
OG Anunoby, Toronto Raptors. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) – New York Knicks /

Tier 1: Immediate starters/star players

These players would instantly be an upgrade to the Knicks’ starting lineup, and would likely raise the ceiling of the entire roster.

Zach LaVine

While he wouldn’t completely deplete their assets, LaVine is the type of star that Team President Leon Rose has been stockpiling picks to trade for.

There have been reports regarding LaVine’s desire to remain with the Bulls and combined with his relatively underwhelming season, the Knicks could theoretically “buy low” on the two-time All-Star.

While he didn’t make the team this year due to both his and the Bulls’ inconsistency, the 27-year-old is still averaging 23.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 46% from the field and 38% from three.

LaVine has also spoken positively about Tom Thibodeau several times since the two were both a part of the Minnesota Timberwolves back in 2017. Despite Thibodeau trading LaVine, the former first-round pick still speaks fondly about his old coach.

While a LaVine trade may not come to fruition before Thursday, he’ll be an important name to monitor going forward as the Knicks presumably go “star-hunting” in the summer.

OG Anunoby

OG Anunoby has quickly become the most popular name linked to New York over the past couple of weeks, and with good reason. Similar to the Bulls, many are expecting the Toronto Raptors to trade away some of their core players as they’ve dropped to 12th place in the Eastern Conference.

In his sixth season, Anunoby is averaging 16.9 points and 5.5 rebounds on 46-37-82 shooting splits. His offensive output is solid, and even more impressive considering he’s known for his defense.

The former 23rd overall pick in 2017 is 6’7″ with an absurd 7’2″ wingspan. When you add in his 232-pound frame and elite defensive instincts, Anunoby is one of the most versatile defenders in the entire league. His 2.1 steals per game rank second in the NBA.

At just 25 years old, he hasn’t even hit the prime years of his career yet.

While he isn’t an effective playmaker just yet and can sometimes struggle to create his own offense, the positives far outweigh the negatives. He can immediately slide into the starting lineup and fit seamlessly alongside Randle and Brunson.

Some trade additions may be more beneficial than others, but all of the aforementioned players would help out the Knicks as they continue their playoff push.

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