Knicks could add $103 million All-Star to pair with Jalen Brunson

The New York Knicks are in a position to win an NBA title, and some more star power could push them over the top.

After falling in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Knicks have simply gotten better this offseason. While replacing Tom Thibodeau with Mike Brown has mixed reviews, the Knicks have made some widely praised moves, signing Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele.

Considering how wide open the East could be next season, the Knicks are a prime candidate to make their first NBA Finals since 1999. Although the Knicks are looking to win a title next season, their championship window extends beyond 2026.

That could give the Knicks an opportunity to make a low-risk, high-reward move to cap their offseason. As suggested by Knicks on SI’s Jeremy Brener, Damian Lillard could be a prime target for New York.

Lillard is set to rehab in Portland throughout next season, with a return unlikely next season. After the Bucks waived and stretched the remaining $103 million on his deal, Lillard could simply sign for the minimum elsewhere, with a multi-year deal giving him some stability as he recovers and gets back on the floor.

The Knicks’ roster is already mostly set for next season. While adding another role player for next season instead of Lillard could be helpful, the idea of Lillard and Brunson dominating defenses in the backcourt in 2027 is hard to ignore. 

There’s no guarantee that Lillard will be the same player when he returns, but considering the low risk, it might be worth taking a chance on the All-Star.