After another early exit, the relationship between the Utah Jazz and Donovan Mitchell reportedly took a dip. The franchise’s decision to trade All-Star center Rudy Gobert further complicated matters. For the entirety of the offseason, Spida seems to be in many teams’ future sights. However, it was the New York Knicks leading the way to land the three-time All-Star.
After a taste of the playoffs, the Knicks stooped right back down as the laughing stock of the league. Despite having a reliable young core, their big names didn’t produce. Notably, Julius Randle underperformed last season as the franchise cornerstone. Hence, they had their eyes set on Donovan Mitchell. Multiple trade talks came around for the offensive maestro.
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But after months of waiting, the Knicks invested in their future. Compromising acquiring Mitchell, New York offered a potential $120 million extension to RJ Barrett.
New York Knicks give up on Donovan Mitchell?
Having an array of picks and young talent, the Utah Jazz set a high price for the three-time All-Star. Wanting six picks, the Knicks were already on the borderline. Hence, they were ready to include arguably their best young star, Barrett, for a potential swap. However, the long inactivity period made the situation reach a near dead end. And the Knicks set a deadline for the Jazz.
With the time expiring, New York signed their first draft pick to an extension since 1999. And Barrett’s potential is sky-high.
At just 22, the Duke product had a career season averaging 20 points and 5.8 rebounds. An ambitious star, Barrett took a major upgrade in the previous season. Hoping Randle returns to his All-Star self, the Knicks could have a valuable duo on their hands. Putting faith in their future, the NBA may see RJ Barrett have a much bigger role in this coming season.
No way this dude is getting paid 30 million a year 💀
— Alex (@0toHerr0) August 30, 2022
The youngest $100M player in Knicks history. 💰 pic.twitter.com/VYArQFXtla
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) August 30, 2022
I JUST GOT BACK ONLINE I COUPD CRY TEARS OF JOY
WHO CARES ABOUT THE NUMBERS MY BOY IS A KNICK FOR LIFE https://t.co/1eY0XIMt6R
— casey peanuts (@casey_peanuts) August 30, 2022
Leon Rose got so sick of Danny Ainge asking for RJ, he extended Barrett and took him off the table. https://t.co/fXWL0KolVD
— Jalen & Jacoby (@JalenandJacoby) August 30, 2022
Donovan’s staying in Utah then?🤔 https://t.co/5rJtqtapKN
— Spence K (@SpencerKeele) August 30, 2022
Donovan is not going to the Knicks confirmed https://t.co/RWr3Sy4EuM pic.twitter.com/RYxvqfDBOC
— SLC Hockey Fan🦌 (@11Kade7) August 30, 2022
While there are areas for the rising star, New York arguably has a superstar brewing in their backyard However, what does this mean for a potential Mitchell trade?
Can New York make it happen?
With Barrett’s new extension, it is virtually impossible to include the Duke man in any trade talks. Now for New York Knicks, their last hope lies in opening up their draft picks. Initially, the Jazz demanded all of the Knicks’ unprotected first-round picks. Likewise, New York didn’t want to gamble their future away.
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However, by securing a talented star for four years, the two-time champions could be open to trading more. Moreover, they might also have to bid adieu to Obi Toppin and another budding star from their core.
Mitchell holds the power to potentially help New York make the big push. A perennial All-Star, he could be the biggest star since Carmelo Anthony. In addition, their ‘Big 3’ could draw in stars and take the Knicks back to the top of the basketball world.
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Watch this Story:?What was Donald Trumps Intense Encounter with Kobe Bryant?
While it is a far fetch, it will all come down to New York’s desperation to make something happen. Do you think the Knicks will shock the market and pick up Donovan Mitchell? Let us know your views in the comments below.