Is Marc Berman of the New York Post employing some weird, reverse voodoo magic?

Berman reported Thursday morning the New York Knicks had an interest in trading for Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal or Houston Rockets combo guard Victor Oladipo.

The angle was obvious, given the Knicks are scheduled to play the Wizards and Rockets in back-to-back nights. Only, both Beal and Oladipo are unavailable.

Washington announced Thursday it was resting Beal, and Oladipo hurt his foot later that night against the Miami Heat. As a result, ‘Dipo will be inactive for Saturday's matchup with the Knicks.

Tough scenes for Mr. Berman.

The Knicks might hope to be opportunists in an effort to acquire either Beal or Oladipo, but their trade prospects are somewhat questionable.

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Beal's agent, Mark Bartelstein, has been adamant his client does not want to be traded. Bartelstein said Beal prefers to see things through from a value-based standpoint and would like to help the Wizards turn their season around.

Oladipo might be a more likely target. The 28-year-old is on an expiring contract and has dealt with a number of injuries in the last couple of years of his career.

Houston also fell to 13th in the Western Conference after losing to the Heat and could be motivated to do some selling if they are not in playoff position at the March deadline. Then again, the Rockets might regard Oladipo as a part of their future as they transition from the James Harden era.

Regardless, the Knicks will not be able to see either player in their next two games.