First Derrick Rose, then Kevin Durant?
The Knicks made a splash on Wednesday when they traded with the Bulls to acquire Rose, a much-needed point guard, but their business seems to only be just beginning.
New York traded center Robin Lopez, guard Jose Calderon and guard Jerian Grant to Chicago in exchange for Rose, guard Justin Holiday and a 2017 draft pick on Wednesday. Now, it appears Knicks president Phil Jackson and company are eyeing luring Durant to the big apple.
It has always appeared that Durant will either re-sign with the Thunder or stay in the Western Conference by signing with another powerhouse, either the reigning Western Conference champion Warriors or Spurs.
Jackson told Rose that the Knicks plan to go hard in their pursuit of Durant once the free agency period begins on July 1, according to the New York Daily News.
The Knicks will look to sell the Thunder star on the aura of Madison Square Garden, the lure of New York City and the ability to play alongside Rose, Carmelo Anthony and breakout star Kristaps Porzingis in pursuit of a title.
The forward, who averaged 28.4 points per game throughout the playoffs, has remained mum on his future and was not ready to discuss free agency after the Thunder were eliminated by the Warriors in Game 7 of the Western Conference finals.
"To be honest, I promise you I haven't thought about that," Durant told USA Today Sports after the Game 7 defeat. "It's hard to think about that. Especially right now, especially when you're battling every single day. It's hard. Give me a couple weeks and talk to me then, but I just don't know right now, man."
Durant, 27, has spent his entire nine-year career with the Thunder after being drafted in the second round by them back when they were the SuperSonics based in Seattle.
A seven-time All-Star and 2014 NBA MVP, Durant has averaged 27.4 points, 6.7 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game throughout his career.
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