NBA Trades: 5 trade targets the New York Knicks must pursue this summer

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 12: Obi Toppin #1 of the New York Knicks looks up at the scoreboard late in the fourth quarter against the Dallas Mavericks as he stands by teammates Quentin Grimes #6 and RJ Barrett #9 at Madison Square Garden on January 12, 2022 in New York City. 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 Elsa/Getty Images) /

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Knicks trade target #2: Zach Lavine

Zach Lavine signed a 5-year $215 million contract with the Bulls last summer but he hasn’t quite lived up to that deal so far. A team in desperate need of scoring with trade assets like New York would offer Chicago a way out if they’re no longer willing to pay Lavine, a reasonable evaluation considering the current roster’s ceiling.

This isn’t a recently floated idea either. The Bulls and Knicks reportedly discussed a Lavine deal at this year’s trade deadline, and considering how the year ended for both teams, a Lavine to the Knicks trade only makes more sense now.

The Bulls’ season ended in disappointment, losing to the Miami Heat in the play-in tournament. They failed to meet expectations and now face the question of whether a rebuild is necessary, while on the other hand, New York exceeded expectations by eliminating the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round, and now faces more pressure going into next season.

Lavine would give Brunson and the Knicks an elite second option who could take the first option mantle on certain nights. His contract is not something to be proud of, but perhaps New York could get the most out of him in a more winning system.

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