The New York Knicks are considered a great candidate to trade for Anthony Davis, possessing the financial and draft resources required for such a significant transaction.
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- Anthony Davis’ contract includes a base salary of $43.2 million for 2024-25, escalating to a three-year extension at $62 million annually.
- The Lakers initially acquired Davis in 2019 for three first-round picks and three players, a historic haul for a single player.
- The Knicks have suitable draft picks and players, like Julius Randle, to potentially satisfy the Lakers’ demands in a trade.
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Anthony Davis and the Knicks’ Appeal
One NBA general manager believes the New York Knicks are the ideal trade partner if the Los Angeles Lakers decide to part ways with Anthony Davis.
According to sources, the Knicks have the financial capability and draft capital to make a compelling offer.
The proposed trade could include several high-value draft picks and potentially a rising star, fitting well with the Knicks’ capacity to take on Davis’ hefty contract.
Davis’ Contract and Salary
Anthony Davis’s contract includes $220 million remaining, with a base salary of $43.2 million for the 2024-25 season and a three-year extension averaging $62 million annually, setting the highest average annual value in NBA history.
This financial commitment from the Lakers was initially made to secure Davis through 2028.
Davis’ Impact Since Joining the Lakers
In 2019, the Lakers acquired Davis from the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for three first-round picks and players Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, and Josh Hart.
This trade was described as one of the most important returns for a single-star player in modern NBA history.
Since joining the Lakers, Davis has delivered three All-Star seasons, and the team is potentially looking to secure a similar return.
Knicks’ Trade Assets: Balancing Picks and Player Potential
The Knicks are in a strong position to meet the Lakers’ demands with their first-round pick in the 2024 draft and additional protected picks from the Dallas Mavericks, Detroit Pistons, and Washington Wizards.
However, the picks from the Wizards and Pistons are heavily protected and may not be immediately useful, though they could hold future value for the Lakers, especially if a rebuild is necessary.
Potential Trade Pieces: Julius Randle’s Role
Julius Randle, another All-Star, might be included in the Knicks’ package for Davis.
Randle, who has two years remaining on his contract with a $29.5 million player option, could be a key piece in a trade to bring another star to the New York Knicks.
Despite being ruled out for the postseason due to shoulder surgery, Randle’s performance of averaging 24 points per game in 46 starts this season makes him a valuable trade asset.
