Retooling The New York Knicks And Creating A Powerful Superteam For The 2024-25 Season

New York Knicks receive: Zion Williamson

New Orleans Pelicans receive: Julius Randle, Bojan Bogdanovic, 2025 first-round pick (via Pistons, Lottery Protected), 2024 No. 24 draft pick, 2024 No. 25 draft pick

After a heartbreaking playoff exit, the New York Knicks will explore a potential blockbuster trade and could acquire Zion Williamson from the New Orleans Pelicans in this scenario. The proposed deal would see the Knicks send Julius Randle, Bojan Bogdanovic, and several draft picks, including a 2025 first-round pick via the Pistons (lottery protected) and the 2024 No. 24 and No. 25 draft picks, to New Orleans in exchange for Williamson.

Zion Williamson, despite dealing with injuries, has been a standout performer for the Pelicans. In the 2023-2024 season, he averaged 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, shooting an impressive 57.0% from the field. His physical presence and scoring ability make him an attractive target for the Knicks, who are looking to build on their recent playoff run.

Julius Randle, who has been a key player for the Knicks, averaged 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game this season. Randle's consistency and experience would provide the Pelicans with a reliable forward, capable of both scoring inside and outside effectively. Bojan Bogdanovic, another valuable asset in this trade, contributed 15.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. His veteran presence and shooting ability would add depth to the Pelicans' roster.

The Knicks are motivated to make this trade to add a dynamic player like Williamson to their lineup. His ability to drive to the basket, finish at the rim, and rebound would significantly bolster the team's frontcourt, complementing the skills of Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby. Williamson's marketability and star power would also energize the Knicks' fanbase and enhance their media presence.

For the Pelicans, trading Williamson could help mitigate the impact of his injury history while acquiring a stable and productive player in Randle. Bogdanovic's shooting and experience would further strengthen the team's depth. The additional draft picks offer future flexibility, allowing the Pelicans to either select promising young talent or use the picks as trade assets to acquire other key players.

In the best case, this trade has the potential to benefit both teams significantly. The Knicks would gain a young, explosive talent in Williamson, positioning themselves as stronger contenders for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, the Pelicans would receive experienced players and valuable draft assets, aiding their ongoing development and competitive efforts in the Western Conference.

Getting Donovan Mitchell His Dream Move

New York Knicks receive: Donovan Mitchell

Cleveland Cavaliers receive: Donte DiVincenzo, Mitchell Robinson, Miles McBride, 2025 first-round pick (via Bucks), 2026 first-round pick, 2028 second-round pick (via Suns), 2029 second-round pick

After a season filled with rumors and speculation, Donovan Mitchell's future with the Cleveland Cavaliers remains uncertain. As the offseason approaches, the New York Knicks are once again eyeing Mitchell, who they almost acquired in 2022 before he was traded to Cleveland. This time, the Knicks are proposing a package that includes Donte DiVincenzo, Mitchell Robinson, Miles McBride, and multiple draft picks: a 2025 first-round pick via the Bucks, a 2026 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick via the Suns, and a 2029 second-round pick.

Mitchell has been a standout player for the Cavaliers, averaging 26.6 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game during the 2023-24 season. Despite his impressive performance, the Cavaliers have struggled with consistency and crashed out of the playoffs in the Eastern Conference against the Boston Celtics. The team dealt with significant injuries to key players Darius Garland and Evan Mobley, which has only fueled the trade rumors surrounding Mitchell.

In the 2022 offseason, Mitchell was heavily linked to the Knicks, but negotiations fell through as the Utah Jazz opted to trade him to Cleveland for a package that included three unprotected first-round picks. The Knicks were cautious not to overpay, a decision that, in hindsight, might have been prudent given the current circumstances.

For the Knicks, acquiring Mitchell would add a significant boost to their backcourt. Pairing him with Jalen Brunson would create a formidable offensive duo, enhancing their chances in the competitive Eastern Conference. The proposed trade would provide the Cavaliers with depth and future assets, potentially allowing them to rebuild around their remaining core while alleviating the uncertainty of Mitchell's commitment to the franchise.

As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Mitchell and whether he decides to sign an extension with Cleveland or explore other opportunities. The Knicks, with their stockpile of draft picks and tradable assets, are poised to make a strong case for his acquisition, hoping to bring the star guard to New York after all.

Re-Signing Isaiah Hartenstein Is A Top Priority

Re-signing Isaiah Hartenstein should be a top priority for the New York Knicks as they look to build on their playoff run. In the 2024 playoffs, Hartenstein was a key contributor, averaging 8.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists over 13 games. His performance highlighted his importance to the team, particularly in high-pressure situations where his defensive and playmaking abilities came to the fore.

Hartenstein's current contract, worth $8 million annually, is set to expire, making him an unrestricted free agent. Given his impactful playoff performance and overall contribution to the team's defensive schemes and offensive fluidity, the Knicks must prioritize his re-signing to maintain their competitive edge. The team has the financial flexibility to offer Hartenstein a substantial contract, potentially up to $72.5 million over four years.

This investment would not only secure Hartenstein's services for the foreseeable future but also demonstrate the Knicks' commitment to retaining key players who contribute to their success. His ability to protect the rim, facilitate ball movement, and provide a reliable presence in the paint makes him an invaluable asset for the Knicks' ambitions in the Eastern Conference.

Free Agents Will Be Needed

As the New York Knicks look to strengthen their roster following a tough playoff exit, adding free agents like Dennis Smith Jr., Cedi Osman, and Daniel Theis could provide the depth and versatility needed to make a deeper run in the upcoming season. Each of these players brings a unique skill set that could address specific needs for the Knicks, from perimeter shooting and defense to playmaking and interior presence.

Dennis Smith Jr. played the 2023-24 season with the Brooklyn Nets. His performance was somewhat inconsistent, as he dealt with injuries, including a hip issue that kept him out of several games. Over the season, Smith Jr. averaged 6.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. Despite his fluctuating minutes and role, he showed flashes of his potential as a playmaker and defender.

Cedi Osman played for the San Antonio Spurs in the season. He averaged 6.8 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 47.9% from the field and 38.9% from three-point range. Osman appeared in 72 games, starting in three, and provided valuable depth and perimeter shooting for the Spurs. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute off the bench makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to improve its wing rotation.

Daniel Theis averaged 6.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game, while shooting 53.2% from the field and 36.6% from three-point range. Theis played 60 games with the Los Angeles Clippers, starting in three, and offered a solid defensive presence and rebounding ability.

A Revamped Knicks Powerhouse

Starting Lineup: Jalen Brunson, Donovan Mitchell, OG Anunoby, Zion Williamson, Isaiah Hartenstein

Bench: Dennis Smith Jr., Josh Hart, Cedi Osman, Precious Achiuwa, Daniel Theis, Jericho Sims

The New York Knicks are undergoing a major overhaul, positioning themselves as a powerhouse in the Eastern Conference. The front office has executed strategic trades and free-agent signings to strengthen both the starting lineup and the bench, setting the stage for a competitive season. The new starting lineup features Jalen Brunson, Donovan Mitchell, OG Anunoby, Zion Williamson, and Isaiah Hartenstein, while the bench includes Dennis Smith Jr., Josh Hart, Cedi Osman, Precious Achiuwa, Daniel Theis, and Jericho Sims. This reconfiguration aims to address past weaknesses and elevate the team’s performance.

Jalen Brunson will continue to lead the offense, with Donovan Mitchell joining him to form a dynamic backcourt duo. Mitchell, who averaged 29.6 points, 4.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds this playoffs, brings elite scoring and playmaking skills. OG Anunoby adds defensive strength and versatility, while Zion Williamson’s presence in the paint brings explosiveness and scoring ability. Isaiah Hartenstein provides solid rebounding and shot-blocking, rounding out a robust starting lineup.

The Knicks' bench has been bolstered with key additions. Dennis Smith Jr. brings playmaking and defensive intensity, and Josh Hart’s versatility will be crucial in various situations. Cedi Osman adds reliable perimeter shooting, while Precious Achiuwa and Daniel Theis contribute defensive solidity and rebounding. Theis, in particular, is known for his veteran presence and efficient play. Jericho Sims adds depth in the frontcourt, enhancing the team’s overall stability.

With this revamped roster, the Knicks are poised for a deep playoff run. The combination of veteran experience, dynamic scoring, and strong defense positions them as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference. This strategic overhaul not only addresses previous shortcomings but also lays the foundation for sustained success, making the Knicks a team to watch in the quest for an NBA championship.

This Team Could Run The East

The New York Knicks are positioned to take control of the Eastern Conference with their newly revamped roster. This team is not just about individual talent but how these pieces come together to form a cohesive and formidable unit. The offseason moves have injected a blend of youth, experience, and versatility into the squad, setting the stage for a potentially dominant season.

One of the most significant changes is the addition of Donovan Mitchell. His arrival from Cleveland brings an explosive scoring option and a player who can take over games, especially in critical moments. Pairing him with Jalen Brunson creates a dynamic backcourt that can drive the Knicks' offense with precision and aggression.

Another critical acquisition is Zion Williamson, whose athleticism and scoring ability in the paint provide the Knicks with a dominant inside presence. Despite his past injury issues, Williamson’s potential impact when healthy is undeniable. His ability to finish at the rim and grab rebounds will be crucial in both offensive and defensive sets. This makes the Knicks' frontcourt one of the most intimidating in the league.

The Knicks’ strategic moves during the offseason have created a roster capable of competing with the best in the league. This team is built not just to make a playoff run but to challenge for the top spot in the Eastern Conference. The combination of star power, defensive strength, and depth makes the Knicks a serious contender.