The New York Knicks are looking to be buyers at the NBA trade deadline and they have their sights on multiple targets. Among the players they are possibly pursuing via trade, the Knicks are keeping close tabs on CJ McCollum of the Portland Trail Blazers, per Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News.
With the Knicks holding a 14-16 record and their sights on making the playoffs, they are interested in making a trade for a star this season. They also possess a $15 million trade exception that will expire this season if they don't use it, which definitely incentivizes them to get a trade done.
McCollum, who hasn't played since January 16 due to a foot ailment, has spent all eight seasons of his career with the Trail Blazers. The Lehigh product has been an effective running mate with Damian Lillard, but some people believe he would excel if he were to leave Portland.
After this season, McCollum has three years and $100 million remaining on his contract. While he will be playing into his 30s on his upcoming extension, the Knicks want to add a star to their young core.
The idea of pairing McCollum with Julius Randle and RJ Barrett is likely an intriguing one for New York. Though, aside from first-round picks, the Knicks don't have much to offer for McCollum, which could mean that Randle or Barrett would have to be involved to pry McCollum away from Portland.
There has been nothing to show that McCollum is available via trade this season. But if he were to be made available by the Trail Blazers, the Knicks appear to have interest in the 29-year-old shooting guard.
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