4 Stars the Knicks could swap RJ Barrett for by the trade deadline

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 22: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks looks on against the Miami Heat during the second quarter at Miami-Dade Arena on March 22, 2023 in Miami, Florida. 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 Megan Briggs/Getty Images) /

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New York Knicks, Milwaukee Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks. (Photo by Trevor Ruszkowski/USA TODAY Sports) – New York Knicks /

2: Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo caught the attention of the entire NBA when he said in an interview he won’t sign an extension with the Bucks unless they’re still on track to contend for a championship. He could decline his player option to become a free agent in 2025, or if push comes to shove in Milwaukee, he could be traded before then.

The two-time MVP should be at the top of New York’s wishlist. Antetokounmpo’s regular season success has translated over to the postseason, where he’s led the Bucks to a title and won the 2021 NBA Finals MVP award in the process. In 79 playoff games, he’s averaged 26.6 points, 12 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game, shooting 52.7% from the field.

The Knicks made a push at reuniting with Giannis’ older brother, Thanasis, this offseason when he was a free agent. New York’s 2014 second-round pick decided to re-sign with Milwaukee on a one-year deal. The Bucks struck gold when they drafted the better Antetokounmpo brother, but the Knicks’ front office would do the same if they managed to trade for Giannis.

Antetokounmpo is the exact superstar New York has been holding out for, but it seems likelier the Knicks will have a better shot at trading for another big-name player in the East.

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