The New York Knicks fell just short of reaching the NBA Finals.
The historic franchise was one of the biggest surprises of the Playoffs, eliminating the defending champions, the Boston Celtics. However, they lost in the Eastern Conference Finals to the Indiana Pacers and are now already thinking about rebuilding the roster for next season.

The Game 6 loss, with a score of 125-108, exposed weaknesses in the team’s defense and offensive execution.
OG Anunoby led the way with 24 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 22 points and 14 rebounds. However, 18 turnovers and a low 28% shooting from three-point range were key factors in the Knicks’ defeat against the Pacers.

Despite the elimination, president Leon Rose has transformed the Knicks into consistent contenders, with key acquisitions like Jalen Brunson and the aforementioned OG Anunoby. Now, the team is looking to take the next step and is seriously considering pursuing Giannis Antetokounmpo. The two-time MVP could become available following the Milwaukee Bucks’ recent playoff disappointments.

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Antetokounmpo has expressed his appreciation for playing in New York and at Madison Square Garden, which has fueled speculation about a possible trade to the Knicks. Additionally, teams like the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers have also shown interest in the Greek star. However, according to analyst Brian Windhorst, those teams may not have the necessary assets to compete in an open bidding war for Giannis.

The Knicks, with valuable assets and a solid core, could present an attractive offer to the Bucks. The addition of Antetokounmpo could be the boost New York needs to reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999. The decision by the Bucks and Giannis will shape the course of the upcoming season and could redefine the landscape of the league.

Tom Thibodeau Staying with the Knicks

Another uncertainty heading into the new season for the New York Knicks was the status of their head coach. Despite a historic campaign, there were rumors about a possible departure of Tom Thibodeau. However, according to Fred Katz and James Edwards of The Athletic, the Knicks have decided to keep Thibodeau in his position for next season.