KEY POINTS

  • The Knicks are expected to skim the market  to build a supporting cast for Julius Randle
  • Magic Johnson hints that more notable names are considering a move to New York
  • The Knicks have several veterans on their radar this offseason

The New York Knicks had an impressive 2020-21 NBA season despite getting knocked out in the first round of the NBA playoffs.

Considering they have been missing from the postseason wars for quite some time, it was a positive development.

Furthermore, the Knicks saw the rise of Julius Randle. The 26-year-old had a stellar season, something that rewarded him his first All-Star appearance and capping it off with the 2021 NBA Most Improved Player of the Year award.

However, it remains that the Knicks need to get Randle some help. He may have had a good regular season, but most also noticed how he faded in the postseason.

Had there been a good backup or supporting cast, things could have been different for Randle and the Knicks.

Under coach Tom Thibodeau, New York appears to be on the right track. Aside from the former Kentucky standout, there were young rising stars in the mix. That list included RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley.

But similar to the last offseason, the Knicks need a proven superstar in the mix. Several names have been mentioned like Chris Paul, Kawhi Leonard and DeMar DeRozan.

However, none have come close to seeing it happen although an NBA legend may know something that most do not.

Earvin “Magic” Johnson mentioned that NBA superstars would now want to play for the Knicks when he spoke on the Alder Almo of Empire Sports Media.

Part of it was because of their good run this NBA season, and the Los Angeles Lakers legend feels some players would now consider playing in New York.

Magic Johnson, shown here speaking at 69th NBA All-Star Game in Chicago in February, sees a glimmer of hope that the NBA can finish the season amid the coronavirus epidemic
Magic Johnson, shown here speaking at 69th NBA All-Star Game in Chicago in February, sees a glimmer of hope that the NBA can finish the season amid the coronavirus epidemic GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / JONATHAN DANIEL

“I think because they made the run and got to the playoffs. And the city is alive about the Knicks, right? I think guys are now looking at and say, ‘Hey man, if I put myself in that lineup with Julius, (Quickley, Barrett and on, and on. Hey, man, we could do something special.’ Because that’s what guys wanna see,” Johnson stated.

The Knicks have options, but it appears they may be best off targeting young promising talent.

Josh Hard was mentioned as a sleeper target, and there is also Bobby Portis who could be considered in a reunion.

New York will have several targets in mind, making them another team that should be monitored closely this summer.

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