With Giannis Antetokounmpo rumors beginning yet another crescendo, the New York Knicks’ lack of tradeable first-round picks are once again front-and-center. That’s fair. One thing, however, must be made abundantly clear: If the Knicks fail to land Giannis, it’s not because they traded for Mikal Bridges—or even how much they gave up for him.
To be certain, it is not disingenuous to harp on the first-round equity surrendered for New York’s wing as Giannis speculation swirls. It needs to be mentioned. The Knicks cannot trade a single outright first-round pick until the offseason. That matters.