The New York Knicks' pursuit of an NBA Title came to an unfortunate end when they fell to the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. This came as a shock after the Knicks knocked off the defending champion Boston Celtics in the prior round.
Still, it marked the first time since 2000 that the Knicks made the Eastern Conference Finals. Although for some, it wasn't viewed as good enough, the Knicks announced on Tuesday that they were firing head coach Tom Thibodeau.
New York Knicks, Kevin Durant report sparks heavy trade rumors
The Knicks now go into the offseason with relative uncertainty. If the result wasn't good enough for the Knicks to keep Thibodeau, there may be some players on the roster who don't feel safe in their standing on the team.
One player who was scolded in the media for his performance was Karl-Anthony Towns. While able to score the ball, the Pacers attacked him in the pick-and-roll and he looked helpless.
If the Knicks do look to make more changes during the offseason, Shams Charania doesn't rule out Kevin Durant as a potential trade target, citing this past trade deadline.
"On Kevin Durant, I will say this: There was mutual interest between Kevin Durant and the Knicks at the trade deadline," Charania said. "The Knicks made an offer for KD... We'll see what happens in the next couple of weeks. Do they go star hunting? But, at the bare minimum, they're going to have to add some more depth."
Durant would provide NBA Finals experience to the Knicks if a deal is made. However, it would largely depend on who would be going back to Phoenix in exchange for Durant, which will become prevalent in trade conversations.
If the Knicks opt to include Mikal Bridges in the deal, it would mark the second time the players were traded for one another.