Grade the trade pitch: Knicks mortgage their future for Villanova connection
Editor's note: This article was originally published before the New York Knicks traded for Mikal Bridges. The trade package, and subsequent grade, have been updated accordingly.
The New York Knicks have made no secret about their affinity for former Villanova Wildcats players. Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart have taken center stage in that regard, while Ryan Arcidiacono has seen two stints in the orange and blue himself.
Ahead of an offseason in which the Knicks will be attempting to take the final step forward to true contender status, another former Villanova star has landed on the radar—and now, the roster.
Mikal Bridges won two National Championships alongside Brunson and DiVincenzo, as well as one with Hart. It forged a bond between the former Wildcats that remains strong to this day and thus drives much of the speculation that surrounds a potential reunion.
The Knicks have now made the move to formally reunite those championship teammates in hopes of delivering a title to New York.
The Knicks have acquired Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, the Knicks have made the move to acquire Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets.
BREAKING: The Brooklyn Nets have agreed in principle on a trade to send F Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks for Bojan Bogdanovic, four unprotected first-round picks, a protected first-round pick via Bucks, an unprotected pick swap and a second-rounder, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/TEGsIpoa3b
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 26, 2024
Just like that, the Knicks have opened their championship window.