The New York Knicks are heading back to the drawing board as their 2021-22 season winds down without a shot at making the playoffs. As they head into the offseason, they should look to add young pieces around RJ Barrett, who is emerging as a true star.

Trading Julius Randle for younger players and draft picks would be a wise move but the Knicks shouldn't stop there. They should inquire about young studs like Zach LaVine, Deandre Ayton, Miles Bridges and Anfernee Simons. Although they will each re-sign with their current team barring the unforeseen, it can't hurt New York to try. Those big fish may not be available but some other talented youngsters might be.

No matter who the Knicks bring in, they shouldn't repeat what they did last offseason. They need to build with the future in the mind, as they aren't ready for a meaningful playoff run in the present.

2 early targets for Knicks in 2022 NBA free agency

2. Mo Bamba

Mitchell Robinson could leave the Knicks this offseason. If that happens, they have to find a suitable replacement for their big man. Bamba would be just that.

It might take a big payday to snag Bamba from the Orlando Magic. Since the 23-year-old is also a restricted free agent, the Magic can keep him for the price that the Knicks look to pay for his services. They most likely would after he had the best season of his career. Still, he enters this offseason available. That should be enough for the Knicks to pursue him.

In 69 games this season, Bamba is averaging 10.6 points, 8.1 rebounds and 1.7 blocks while shooting 37.6 percent from deep. He brings all the shot-blocking Robinson does with the ability to stretch the floor. As the screener for Barrett, New York would have plenty of options on offense. Bamba can also anchor their defense.

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With Bamba and Jericho Sims, the Knicks would have a center rotation with two young guys with tremendous athleticism. The Knicks should not have any hesitations about Bamba because of his contract situation. They should pursue him heavily.

1. Collin Sexton

Sexton is another restricted free agent, though he is one whose place on his team has decreased over the season. The Cleveland Cavaliers had a great season without him. Before they entered the playoff picture, they couldn't agree on a contract extension. If he is truly on his way out of town, the Knicks should offer him his next place to play.

New York could use another perimeter shot creator. The 23-year-old Sexton has been a strong scorer since he joined the NBA. As both a shooter and slasher, he can make the defense pay. Even with a poor supporting cast, he improved his efficiency each season before this one, which was cut short by injury. His playmaking isn't great for a point guard but he isn't helpless in that department either.

In 11 games this season, Sexton averaged 16.0 points and 2.1 assists. He got off to a poor start and tore his meniscus in November, which took away his chances of getting back to his previous levels of production. Last season, he averaged 24.3 points and 4.4 assists.

The Knicks have lacked backcourt threats for a very long time. Immanuel Quickley is starting to improve his output but has not yet shown to be a truly dangerous scorer over a full season. Sexton has.