Every NBA team wants Kevin Durant. The New York Knicks are probably still a long-shot in the league-wide competition, but their odds look better today than they did yesterday. The Bulls acquired former MVP Derrick Rose in a trade Wednesday, and their roster got a dramatic facelift – at least on paper.
Knicks president Phil Jackson has reportedly already met with Rose and laid out his plan to pursue Durant starting July 1, according to the New York Daily News. Jackson reportedly believes the trade improves the Knicks' chances.
If they were somehow able to pull this off, the Knicks would suddenly have both the 2014 and 2011 MVPs on their roster, in addition to Carmelo Anthony and Kristaps Porzingis. Despite the fact that the rest of their roster would be a dumpster fire (Arron Afflalo and Derrick Williams are both testing free agency), the Knicks would automatically be considered Eastern Conference contenders. Also something to keep in mind: playing in the Eastern Conference is simply way easier than the grind of the West.
This Durant-to-NY arrangement doesn't seem likely. Based on reports throughout this year, conventional logic would suggest Durant will only sign in one of two places: Oklahoma City, where the state is literally offering him a government position if he re-signs, or Golden State, which has a culture Durant admires and proven championship pedigree, plus great coaching. The Spurs are another appealing contender who will make a run at Durant.
Then again, shoot the J, Phil! Here is a live look at the Zen Master:
Send all complaints, compliments, and tips to sportstips@complex.com.
