Official: New York Knicks emerge as real favourite to land Miami heat skillful prodigy….
A lot of people are watching the New York Knicks in the run-up to the 2024 NBA Trade Deadline. They have solidified their status as one of the league’s greatest teams in the past month, having gone on an incredible run in January that propelled them up to the No. 3 spot in the Eastern Conference.
Despite their recent winning streak, the Knicks still have a few minor issues on their roster. They really need another playmaker and shot-maker, but it wouldn’t hurt to acquire another big man for insurance in the front court.
A lot of pressure was already on Jalen Brunson to lead the offense, but that pressure has risen with the injury to Julius Randle. He is the sole offensive hub the team has, as his teammates play off of him.
The offense hasn’t slowed down without Randle, as other players have stepped up in the absence of him and OG Anunoby. But it is certainly a need to find another ball-handler. Don’t forget, the Knicks have the assets to go hunting for a star should one come available.
While a smaller move is likely what the team is looking for ahead of the deadline, if the right All-Star becomes available, don’t put it past Leon Rose to make a deal. Could that ideal player be Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat?
As shared by Bovada, via The Dunk Central on X, the Knicks are the odds-on favorites to acquire Butler should the Heat look to trade him. They have +210 odds, followed by the Philadelphia 76ers with +255 and Sacramento Kings at +325.
It would be truly shocking to see Pat Riley come together on a deal with the Knicks. Trading away his best player to arguably his most bitter rival would certainly be a shocking turn of events. Riley had some great seasons coaching the Knicks, but how things turned out with him ending up in Miami, there may not be a bigger rivalry in the NBA.
Alas, there have recently been some NBA analysts who believe the Heat should look to trade Butler, providing him a chance to contend. Miami is riding a seven-game losing streak which has dropped them to seventh in the Eastern Conference.
Their trade for Terry Rozier has not been a positive one yet, as Rozier is struggling to find a rhythm with his new team. Still, 4.5 games clear of the 11th-place Brooklyn Nets, the Heat, at the very least, should be in the NBA Play-In Tournament. But, with each passing day, it is fair to question if they are contender-worthy.
