Fresh off their first conference finals appearance in 25 years, change is already in the air for the New York Knicks. As they continue their search for a new head coach, one NBA legend chimed in on the idea of them trading for a superstar talent this offseason.
Heading into this summer, it's widely believed that Kevin Durant will be suiting up for a new team. Shams Charania reported Thursday that the former MVP and his business partner have begun looking at trade options. Among the teams reportedly interested in Durant's services are the Knicks.
On Thursday morning, Magic Johnson made an appearance on ESPN's "Get Up" to discuss topics across the NBA. When Durant potentially being on the move came up, the LA Lakers legend gave his thoughts as to why the Knicks are a perfect landing spot for him.
"Kevin Durant, that's an interesting piece," Johnson said. "Kevin Durant will allow them to get faster and be a guy that can help Brunson in the fourth quarter...I like Kevin Durant playing with the Knicks, I really do."
.@MagicJohnson is eyeing how Kevin Durant would fit on the Knicks 👀
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) June 12, 2025
"The Knicks are too slow. ... Kevin Durant would allow them to get faster and be a guy that can help Brunson in the fourth quarter. ... I like Kevin Durant playing with the Knicks. I really do." pic.twitter.com/eZ3r2AQDIG
As he gets ready to turn 37, Durant is looking to compete for a championship in these final stages of his NBA career. With their current core, New York could give him an opportunity to contend. Bringing him in would also give the Knicks elite-level shot creation alongside Jalen Brunson. Having two highly skilled players capable of going and getting a basket late in games would certainly make New York more of a threat come playoff time.
Coming off a season where he averaged 26.6 PPG on 52/43/83 shooting splits, Durant is still capable of being one of the game's top offensive talents. He's made a career of putting up big numbers in limited touches, making him an ideal running mate to Jalen Brunson. The Knicks star can continue to be the focal point of the offense but also have an all-time talent to fall back on when needed.
After using up most of their assets to acquire Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges, trading for KD could be tough for the Knicks. That said, it's still an avenue worth considering as they look to remain in the title hunt in the Eastern Conference.