The New York Knicks’ NBA title quest officially begins on Saturday in Game 1 in the opening round of the playoffs against the Detroit Pistons.
While the Pistons will likely give New York a run for their money, the Knicks should advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals.
However, if Jalen Brunson and the Knicks underachieve from there, they should pivot to impactful free agency moves to help them move closer to title contention.
The organization could acquire a nine-time All-Star forward to assist their dynamic $376 million duo.
Paul George signed with the Philadelphia 76ers last season, hoping to make a statement right out of the gate.
Unfortunately, knee and adductor injuries limited George to 41 contests, making finding a rhythm on the hardwood challenging.
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George, who entered the 2024-25 campaign with a nine-year 20+ points per game streak, averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game, shooting 43% from the field and 35.8% from three.
Although the former Oklahoma City Thunder superstar signed a four-year deal with the franchise, he may be a trade candidate this summer.
"Even though injuries played a huge part in the team's (76ers) failures, it's hard not to blame a least a big part of the pie on Paul George,” Sir Charles in Charge’s Michael Saenz wrote Sunday.
"Signed during the offseason to help put the Sixers over the top in the Eastern Conference, but PG has done none of that.”
"PG was a pretty big disappointment for the Sixers this season. While it would be easy to give him an out, or excuse, because Joel Embiid wasn't healthy this year, I'm not sure that's how this season is going to be remembered. Overall, PG didn't live up to the huge contract that he signed with Philadelphia.”
“In what ended up being one of the least productive seasons of his career, you can't help but wonder if there's a ton of buyer's remorse from the Sixers. At this point, it wouldn't be surprising if they tried to trade him this summer.”
It’s reasonable to assume the Knicks will set their sights set on landing Kevin Durant in the offseason, but George could sneak his way up New York’s trade wishlist.
At his best, George is a silky smooth perimeter operator who gets to his spots at a comfortable speed and can single-handedly take over playoff games if needed.
A trade for George would likely include OG Anunoby, a valuable two-way forward to appease Philadelphia. Surprisingly, George could be on the Knicks’ radar this summer.
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