The New York Knicks could be looking for a superstar this summer. Their decision will likely depend on the end of the 2023-24 season and the players available. Under Leon Rose, the front office has accumulated draft assets that it can cash in whenever it wants.
In 2024, New York has four first-round picks and two second-round picks. Three of the first-round picks are protected by Detroit (1-18), Washington (1-12) and Dallas (1-10). The Pistons and Wizards picks are unlikely to be passed on, but the that of the Mavericks should.
If Washington’s choice does not materialize by 2026, it will become in two second round picks. If Detroit’s pick is not made by 2027, he will become a second-round pick. The Knicks could use these first-round picks in a trade for a star this summer, but they could potentially turn into second-rounders.
NBA front offices understand how protected first-round picks work. New York isn’t going to “pull a quick punch” on an opposing team like Cleveland (absolutely no reason to use the Cavaliers as an example), but the Knicks could benefit from their protected picks.
It’s not just about a first-round pick, but the quality of that pick. Two summers ago, Jazz wanted at least three unprotected first round pick for Donovan Mitchell, and the Knicks weren’t willing to answer it. The Cavaliers did that and added two trade picks.
New York has one pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. By the 2030 draft, the Knicks have seven unprotected first-round picks (including 2024). These picks will be valuable to a team trading a superstar. The Knicks tax is a reality. Because it’s no secret what New York has, an opposing team could try to take more advantage of the organization. Leon Rose is no fool, however.
The current front office regime is ahead of that of years past. As one of the Knicks’ rivals likes to say, trust the process!
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