New York Knicks Young Star Mentioned in Major Trade Rumors

The NBA is a star-driven league, and the New York Knicks have room for a star. The problem is, you have to give something to get something, and a young piece of the Knicks' core could be the odd man out.

That player is RJ Barrett, the Knicks' shooting guard that just completed his sophomore season in the NBA. Barrett improved in a number of ways this season, both statistically and in maturity. His scoring, assist and rebounding totals all increased from a season ago, and his playing time was increased as a result. He also grew into more of a leadership role among his young teammates, famously claiming in an interview how the team "would not be satisfied" simply by making the playoffs.

That being said, with the names being connected to Barrett and the Knicks this offseason, it may be in the team's best interest to entertain trading the promising young guard.

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The first name mentioned by New York Daily News' Kristian Winfield is Portland Trail Blazers point guard, Damian Lillard. Dame has said on numerous occasions that he's committed to winning in Portland, but one has to wonder how long those statements will remain true. The Blazers have already made a change in the head coaching position, and have to decide if it's worth trying again with the same group, or if it's time to send Lillard off to greener pastures.

The other name mentioned was Washington Wizards guard, Bradley Beal. Beal has been a monster for the team each of the last two seasons, scoring over 30 points per game. The former third overall pick would add a dynamic scoring threat to the Knicks' backcourt, but he only has one more year left on his contract, followed by a player option the following year. Ideally, you'd want some assurances that Beal would be interested in signing a long-term contract.

Either way, as good as Barrett could be in this league, the Knicks window to win a championship opened much earlier than most fans anticipated. Once your window is open, you have to do everything you can to win while you have the chance.

So, would you move RJ Barrett?