The New York Knicks tried to flip Kristaps Porzingis for a shot at Anthony Davis but were rejected by the New Orleans Pelicans before dealing their franchise player to the Dallas Mavericks. Davis still finds New York as an attractive option, but the Knicks are unlikely to have a package worthy of their attention unless they hold the No. 1 or No. 2 overall picks in the 2019 NBA Draft, according to Marc Berman of The New York Post.

“League sources believe the Pelicans don’t see the Knicks as having a strong enough package to offer for Davis, unless they win either the first or second pick in May’s lottery.”

So far, it has been a two-horse race for Davis, with the Los Angeles Lakers doling out one unimpressive offer after another, while the Boston Celtics talk to the Pelicans and urge them to wait on a deal.

Come summertime, the Knicks could throw in their hat and make this an interesting race if they hold one of the top two picks and are willing to part with it in exchange for Davis.

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A top pick could be an incredible find, as the three worst records in the league would have an equal 14 percent chance to garner the No. 1 selection. The Knicks are already in full tank mode and well underway for a roll of the dice in that category with a league-worst 10-43 record.

The No. 1 draft pick could materialize into Zion Williamson, a generational talent that could transform a franchise, and like Davis, give New Orleans some hope and the chance to start again.