The New York Knicks’ aspirations to acquire Kevin Durant faded as they remained hopeful of securing Giannis Antetokounmpo during the offseason. According to the latest Kevin Durant Knicks trade rumors, New York stepped aside from Durant’s potential destinations, anticipating that Antetokounmpo might request a trade from Milwaukee. Ultimately, Durant was traded to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, a first-round pick in 2025 (No. 10 overall), and five second-round picks.
Meanwhile, the Knicks opted not to make moves during the recent NBA draft and appear poised to explore opportunities in the 2025 free agency, which begins at 5:00 p.m. ET on Monday. However, Antetokounmpo’s possible departure has also contributed to New York’s inactivity in other trade pursuits. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst offered insight into the Knicks’ stance amid the Giannis trade discussions.
“There’s a reason the Knicks were on Kevin Durant’s preferred list and said, ‘thanks but no thanks.'”
—Brian Windhorst, ESPN Analyst
Despite having key contributors like Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges, the Knicks lack the specific assets Milwaukee desires for a Giannis trade. The Bucks appear interested in a rebuilding strategy that favors acquiring young talent and future draft picks over established players. The Knicks could, in theory, package their impact players in a multi-team deal to secure the necessary draft capital for Milwaukee, but such maneuvers would complicate their current roster and disrupt the team’s core structure.
Emerging Trade Rumors Connect Knicks to LeBron James
In addition to links involving Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant, the New York Knicks have surfaced as potential suitors for LeBron James. After opting into his $52.7 million player option on Sunday, James’ agent, Rich Paul, hinted that his future with the Los Angeles Lakers remains uncertain, fueling speculation about the four-time MVP’s next destination.
LeBron James appears motivated to join a team with championship viability, and the Lakers’ uncertain direction toward future improvement may push him to consider alternate options. The Knicks quickly emerged as a logical fit due to James’ remarks following his decision to remain with the Lakers for the upcoming season. During a dinner with his wife Savannah, Kevin Love, and other associates, James acknowledged that New York is not a destination he dismisses.
At age 41, James’ trade market is unique; he likely would not necessitate a first-round pick for a deal, especially if New York offers high-level role players and helps Los Angeles address roster needs. Players such as OG Anunoby and Mitchell Robinson have been identified as potential pieces that might attract the Lakers’ interest.
If LeBron James indeed signals a preference for New York as his landing spot, the Knicks could gain leverage in negotiations since James holds a no-trade clause, allowing them to negotiate terms favorable to their interests.
Looking Ahead: Knicks’ Strategic Position After Trade Developments
The Knicks now face the challenge of balancing roster stability with the ambition to add a superstar who can elevate their championship prospects. While the pursuit of Kevin Durant ended with Durant moving to Houston, the possibility of acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo or LeBron James keeps New York’s off-season potential alive. The team’s ability to navigate complex trades involving draft picks, young assets, and high-impact players will shape its future trajectory.
With the 2025 NBA free agency period approaching, all eyes will remain on the Knicks to see if they can capitalize on opportunities presented by shifting player interests and front-office decisions around the league. The outcome of these efforts could redefine the Knicks’ competitiveness in the Eastern Conference and beyond.