Over the last several years, the New York Knicks have missed out on LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and just about every other NBA star that you can think of. But you certainly cannot knock them for a lack of persistence.
Steve Popper of Newsday reported on Saturday that Knicks executive vice president William Wesley, the right-hand man to president Leon Rose, has been selling management on his plan to eventually get a star to come to the Knicks. The one star that Wesley has in mind, Popper adds, is Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell.
The 25-year-old Mitchell, a three-time All-Star, is a native of New York. He has never gotten past the second round since being drafted by Utah in 2017, leading to speculation about what his future may hold if the Jazz come up short again this season. There has also already been buzz that Mitchell might be eyeing a move to the Knicks specifically.
Unfortunately for the Knicks though, Mitchell cannot be a free agent until 2025, so they would have to give up something of value to get him. But with turmoil growing in the organization amid their 25-35 season, the Knicks may be feeling the pressure to make a big splash before it is too late.
Photo: Jan 4, 2022; New York, New York, USA; Executive Chairman and CEO of Madison Square Garden, James Dolan, walks off the court after the New York Knicks defeated the Indiana Pacers 104-94 at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
