NBA Rumors: The Knicks are actively pursuing a third star

With the Eastern Conference becoming more packed together by the day, teams such as the New York Knicks have been scouring the trade market for upgrades. The Knicks have frequently been mentioned as a landing spot for a star, but rumors have seemingly picked up of late suggesting that something might happen sooner than later.

While there haven't been many stars specifically linked to the Knicks, one that has is DeMar DeRozan of the Chicago Bulls according to Sam Amick. With DeRozan set to become an unrestricted free agent after this season and unable to come to an agreement on a contract extension, he seems likely to be available, and the Knicks could be the team that pounces.

Can the New York Knicks acquire a star ahead of the trade deadline?

The Knicks are currently 5th in the East and have played better of late, but in order to join teams like the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks at the top of the conference, they need to make a drastic move to improve their roster. With DeRozan as a potential trade target, they could package Evan Fournier, Isaiah Hartenstein, their 2024 first-round pick, and Detroit's second-round pick in a deal with the Bulls.

That would allow them to add DeRozan and his scoring and playmaking without giving up much in terms of rotation players. The Knicks could also look at acquiring Zach LaVine from the Bulls, though he would likely cost them more in terms of assets. That being said, he is five years younger and under contract for three more seasons.

That would potentially be more appealing to New York since he'd fit their timeline better and give them a third star alongside Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle, who is playing much better of late. All in all, the Knicks are actively looking for a star, and the Bulls have a pair of stars that could interest them. Moreover, New York has the assets needed to potentially get a deal done ahead of the trade deadline.