Proposed Knicks Trade Could Land 23 PPG NBA All-Star
As the NBA’s free agency period approaches (beginning June 29), analysts are proposing various trade and sign-and-trade scenarios. One intriguing scenario involves the New York Knicks acquiring All-Star Lauri Markkanen from the Utah Jazz in exchange for Julius Randle, three first-round picks, and a pick swap.
**Trade Details:**
– **New York Knicks receive:** Lauri Markkanen
– **Utah Jazz receive:** Julius Randle, 2024 First-Round Pick (from Mavericks), 2025 First-Round Pick (from Pistons), 2026 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick Swap
FanFirstSports’ Greg Patuto suggested this trade, arguing that Markkanen’s elite long-range shooting would complement Jalen Brunson better than Randle. Patuto emphasized that Markkanen, at 27 years old, fits well with the Knicks due to his age and shooting ability, noting his consistent improvement each year in the league.
Jazz’s Interest in Draft Picks
The Jazz, under Danny Ainge’s leadership, have been linked to a desire for more draft picks. They might also consider trading their three picks in the June 26-27 NBA Draft — No. 10 (own), No. 29 (via Thunder), and No. 32 (via Wizards) — to move up in the draft.
Knicks’ Reported Interest in Markkanen
Heavy Sports’ Sean Deveney previously reported on the Knicks’ interest in Markkanen. Deveney noted that the Jazz might demand five or six first-round picks for their All-Star forward. An NBA GM told Heavy Sports that the Knicks would prefer Markkanen over Randle due to his shooting, but Utah might only agree to a deal involving multiple first-round picks rather than Randle himself.
Knicks’ Draft Pick Strategy
The Knicks, led by Leon Rose, have a wealth of draft picks and might be motivated to use them following their second-round exit in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. They have three picks in the June 26-27 NBA Draft — No. 24 (via Mavericks), No. 25 (own), and No. 38 (via Jazz) — and several future picks, including those from Detroit, Milwaukee, and Washington.
### Future Moves and Considerations
Some believe the Knicks should give their current lineup, featuring a healthy Jalen Brunson and Randle, another postseason run before making major changes. However, others argue the team needs upgrades to become serious contenders in the Eastern Conference. According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Brunson is almost guaranteed a contract extension in the offseason, while Randle’s future with the team remains uncertain. Thus, the Knicks might explore trading the three-time All-Star to facilitate these potential changes.
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