There has been a lot of talk about what the New York Knicks could do this summer, however, one team insider believes the choice the organization makes when it comes to an important decision in June would reveal a huge trade might be on the horizon.
The Knicks’ 2023-24 season ended with frustration as injuries played a huge role in being eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in the semifinals of the NBA Playoffs. Nevertheless, this year confirmed they have a legitimate superstar in Jalen Brunson and a team that is on the cusp of being a serious title contender heading into next season.
That’s why there has been a whole bunch of speculation about what the organization could do this offseason to get the final pieces needed to make this a roster that can get the city its first NBA title since 1973. However, before they make any big moves on the trade market they have an important decision to make next month.
Bojan Bogdanovic has a $19 million team option for next season. On Tuesday, The Athletic’s Knicks reporter Fred Katz explained why the organization opting into the deal could indicate a big trade is imminent.
“They have until June 28 either to release the 35-year-old forward, which would pay him only $2 million for 2024-25, or to guarantee his $19 million salary. If they decide on the latter, it may be a sign that a trade for a star is on the way,” Katz wrote.
“Part of the reason they acquired Bogdanović, who just underwent his second surgery in a month, was because of his contract flexibility. They could use him as a midsized salary to flip in a star trade or they could move on from him if it did not work.”
Katz also explained why there is no value in holding on to Bogdanovic, even if they see him as a worthwhile chip for the bench next season. The New York Knicks will try to re-sign Isaiah Hartenstein and OG Anunoby this offseason. That could end up costing them over $51 million per season against the salary cap. Having Bogdonavic’s money still on the payroll would take them into the luxury tax and limit the types of moves they can make next season.
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