While the Phoenix Suns appear to be gathering momentum in their pursuit of Chris Paul, the New York Knicks are heading in the other direction.

Ian Begley of SNY reports the Knicks are hesitant to part with the assets they feel would be necessary to complete a deal for the Oklahoma City Thunder point guard:

Paul has been linked to the Knicks as well and there are people in the organization who feel Paul can help jump-start their desire to build a winning culture and can help their young players.

But there is a concern about the amount of assets New York would have to surrender to trade for Paul.

Some MSG people are wary of giving up too many assets in a Paul deal because they want to ensure that New York has enough capital in place for a future trade for another high-profile player, SNY sources say.

Begley also says the feeling in the Knicks' front office is the involvement of other teams — including the Suns and Milwaukee Bucks — in the CP3 sweepstakes will only drive up the Thunder's asking price.

It is unclear the Knicks even have assets the Thunder would desire.

Marc Berman of the New York Post reported last month Oklahoma City was eyeing Kevin Knox in a possible deal for Paul. The Knicks also would not necessarily have to worry about swapping salaries because of their projected cap space.

But New York would almost assuredly have to give up the No. 8 pick, Knox and more with the Suns gaining steam in talks.

The Knicks appear unwilling to sell too many assets, even to land a veteran leader like Paul.