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Knicks 2023 offseason primer: free agents, trades, draft needs and more

By Ari Schwartz

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 28: Immanuel Quickley #5 of the New York Knicks greets teammates during the fourth quarter of the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on January 28, 2023 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 Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 28: Immanuel Quickley #5 of the New York Knicks greets teammates during the fourth quarter of the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on January 28, 2023 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 Dustin Satloff/Getty Images) /
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Option One:

The NBA trade market appears relatively weak, at least for now, with most available stars requiring an overpay to be acquired. Still, a big offseason upgrade might be necessary if New York hopes to reach new and higher expectations for next season.

DeRozan would be an exciting yet safe option, as, despite his all-star status, his trade value isn’t that high because of his age and expiring contract.

The Bulls may be willing to part with the six-time all-star and undergo a rebuild following a disappointing season. This should be seen as a decent package from Chicago’s perspective, acquiring two intriguing prospects in Obi Toppin and Miles McBride, as well as a first-round pick and Evan Fournier for salary-matching purposes.

If the Bulls’ front office agrees, DeRozan would be a great acquisition for New York, providing the scoring and playmaking help that Jalen Brunson desperately needed in this year’s playoffs.

Option Two:

If New York fails to land a star, it would still be helpful to move some pieces on the roster, including Toppin. The 25-year-old has failed to meet the expectations of a lottery pick, and almost to no fault of his own, as he’s received very few opportunities being Julius Randle’s backup. A change of scenery may be what’s best for both Toppin and the Knicks as he enters the final year of his rookie contract.

Indiana would provide Toppin with the opportunity he needs as they have a vacancy at the power-forward spot. Toppin is a much more intriguing prospect than other fours on Indiana’s roster because of his elite athleticism and quietly developing perimeter game.

From the Knicks’ perspective, they’d acquire two draft picks, one of which is a first-round pick in what’s shaping up to be one of the deepest draft classes in recent memory. They’d also manage to get Toppin’s rookie deal off the books, a small but nice bonus.