The New York Knicks have a stockpile of assets and are waiting to make a blockbuster trade. They are in no rush. The Knicks passed on Donovan Mitchell last summer and are not eager to waste their chance on Damian Lillard or James Harden. New York has been patient this offseason (subscription required) in hopes a true superstar that fits their roster demands a trade.
Reigning MVP Joel Embiid could be that player. Leon Rose and William Wesley were his agents before they took over the Knicks front office and the pursuit has already begun. Harden’s trade request has the 76ers in turmoil, and Philadelphia is doing whatever possible to keep Embiid. It may not work, but the Knicks are no lock to acquire the reigning MVP if he asks out.
New York will offer a monster package, including multiple first-round draft picks and young talent. Will it be the one Daryl Morey accepts? Michael Saenz of Sir Charles in Charge outlined multiple packages the Knicks could present, but are any worth considering?
Grading New York Knicks trade packages to acquire 76ers superstar Joel Embiid
3. Knicks put out the feelers
Morey is not known for giving discounts, and it is not happening here. Embiid has led the league in scoring for two straight years. The reigning MVP is a two-way force in the middle of his prime. Philadelphia will hang up the phone over anything less than a monster offer.
R.J. Barrett just turned 23 years old and has averaged over 19 points per game for two consecutive seasons. The former third-overall pick has massive potential and makes this offer worth considering.
Morey will point to the Kevin Durant trade to set the asking price here. Phoenix gave up Mikal Bridges, Cameron Johnson, four first-round picks, one first-round picks swap, and one second-rounder for KD. Bridges had more value than Barrett, and there is not as much draft capital.
Knicks grade: A+
This is a middle-of-the-road offer. The Philadelphia 76ers should not be insulted and instantly hang up the phone, but they won’t accept either. Immanuel Quickley is worth one first-round pick, and teams that believe Barrett turns into an All-Star would be interested in this package. Daryl Morey knows he can and will get more for Joel Embiid, but this is likely where the negotiations begin not end.