With the 2024 NBA Draft just over 24 hours away, rumors are swirling about what teams could be looking to do. Two teams people are keeping a close eye on are the New York Knicks and Los Angeles Clippers.
Both teams are right on the cusp of contention in the NBA. But, depending on how the offseason shakes out, their standing in that tier could change.
The New York Knicks surprised a lot of people, winning 50 games in the 2023-24 season despite several injuries. Those injuries eventually became too much to overcome, getting eliminated in the second round by the Indiana Pacers.
The Clippers put together a Big 3 this season, acquiring James Harden to join Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Their elite production was on display for a time, but untimely injuries derailed them once again.
Heading into the 2024 NBA Draft, the New York Knicks have a lot of ammunition to swing a blockbuster trade. Could the Los Angeles Clippers be the perfect trade partner for them?
Over at Bleacher Report, Grant Hughes has pitched a blockbuster trade between the teams. From the Clippers’ perspective, this is one deal that Hughes believes makes sense for the franchise.
In the proposed swap, George would be on his way to the Big Apple. Coming back to Los Angeles would be Bojan Bogdanovic, Julius Randle, Miles McBride and several draft picks. Nos. 24 and 38 in the 2024 NBA Draft, a 2025 first-round pick via the Milwaukee Bucks top-four protected and unprotected 2026 first-rounder from the Knicks.
The Clippers would avoid catastrophe watching George walk in free agency for nothing should he decline his player option. Bogdanovic, Randle and McBride are all legitimate rotation pieces that bolster the team’s depth.
The draft capital gives the Clippers some maneuverability so that they can swing some more deals, reshaping the roster around Leonard. Randle is no slouch as a centerpiece as a three-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA member.
The New York Knicks would be legitimate contenders to the Boston Celtics’ crown with George in the mix. A starting lineup of Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, George, OG Anunoby and Isaiah Hartenstein or Mitchell Robinson, with Josh Hart as the sixth man, is very strong.
Mix in a potential mid-level exception addition and one draft pick and the New York Knicks would be in business. That’s a group in which veterans willing to take minimum contracts for the chance to contend would latch on to.
Do you want the latest news, updates, and rumors surrounding all sports? Click here. Make sure to check out our sister sites as well: NFL Analysis Network, NBA Analysis Network, Packers Coverage.
