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Lakers Legend Has Clear Stance on Potential Kevin Durant, Knicks Pairing

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kade Kimble | Last updated Jun 12, 2025 11:36 AM ET

Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant is expected to be traded in the next two weeks. According to recent reports, the club and Durant's party are sorting through five potential landing spots.

The New York Knicks are among the Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat and Minnesota Timberwolves as those in the running to land the 15-time All-Star in a trade.

While the Knicks are typically linked to superstars expected to be dealt on the trade market -- or those who are free agents -- the team usually doesn't end up landing them.

There have been rumors about Durant signing with New York in the past, and he ultimately signed with the Brooklyn Nets. This time around, it'll come down to a trade.

Should the two-time champion be eager to land in the Big Apple once again, this time with the Knicks, a trade might just happen.

Would it be a good move, though? Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson joined ESPN's "Get Up" to discuss the matter.

"The Knicks are too slow. ... Kevin Durant would allow them to get faster and be a guy that can help Brunson in the fourth quarter. ... I like Kevin Durant playing with the Knicks. I really do," Johnson explained.

.@MagicJohnson is eyeing how Kevin Durant would fit on the Knicks

"The Knicks are too slow. ... Kevin Durant would allow them to get faster and be a guy that can help Brunson in the fourth quarter. ... I like Kevin Durant playing with the Knicks. I really do." pic.twitter.com/eZ3r2AQDIG
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) June 12, 2025

Led by Jalen Brunson, the Knicks could have a viable second option, as Durant has been quite comfortable making his impact felt on high efficiency and low shooting volume in recent seasons.

This move could help the Knicks build some fluidity on the offensive side of the ball.

Still, more moves would need to be made in the margins to flesh out the team around the two superstars, as depth and a proper supporting cast absolutely matter -- as is being shown in the NBA Finals right now.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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