4. Get involved in Harden trade
James Harden wants out of Philadelphia, and his preferred destination is to return home to Los Angeles. The Clippers have interest, but Daryl Morey is holding out for a massive return. The 76ers cannot afford to trade Harden at a discount because falling out of contention could mean losing Joel Embiid.
The two sides are struggling to work out a trade, but the Knicks could be the perfect third team to complete this deal. New York could add in a third first-round draft pick in exchange for Norman Powell, which gives the Sixers the ammunition to trade for another star.
This trade could hinge on Terance Mann. The Clippers are reportedly unwilling to deal him for Harden. LA has an aging roster, and Mann is a valued contributor that is still in his prime. The Clippers would have to give up Mann, two first-round picks, and salary-matching pieces to make this trade work, which is more than they want to pay.
This trade could quickly crumble, and it is fair to wonder how much Norman Powell would play in New York with Jalen Brunson, R.J. Barrett, Josh Hart, Immanuel Quickley, Quentin Grimes, and Donte DiVincenzo all vying for minutes. It seems like an odd fit, but one that could better position the Knicks to make a superstar trade.
Consider this one unlikely, but that is not the only superstar trade that the Knicks could get involved in.