The New York Knicks are on the cusp of contention after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in a quarter century. Despite their postseason run, there are expected to be many changes in New York this offseason.
Their first order of business will be finding their next coach after firing Tom Thibodeau following their elimination. The next step will be figuring out what moves can help put them over the top.
While the Knicks had been listed as a potential landing spot for Kevin Durant, they are reportedly no longer interested in acquiring the Phoenix Suns star. Marc Spears appeared on NBA Today, where he discussed the franchise's lack of interest in the 15-time All-Star.
"KD wanted the New York Knicks," ESPN's Marc Spears reported Monday. "He wanted to go there. The Knicks have no interest in bringing him in, which probably makes Knicks nation quite interested in why not. I think these three choices (Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets) are by default. He definitely doesn't want to go to Minnesota, but I think there is some fear from him and Rich Kleiman that they're hoping that there's going to be respect at Kevin's age to give him what he wants rather than try to trade him like he's 31 years old, which he's not anymore. I think they're trying to get a major haul, but they're hoping that they work with him and get it done."
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The four-time scoring champion continued to play at an elite level in his age-36 season. He averaged 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 0.8 steals and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting 52.7% from the field, 43.0% from three-point range and 83.9% from the free-throw line.
Durant's age -- combined with the fact that he has just one year remaining on his contract -- could limit the return for the Suns. While he could certainly be the missing piece that the Knicks need to win their first title in over five decades, it appears that the franchise has pulled out of the sweepstakes to acquire him.
More NBA: Suns star Kevin Durant reportedly has no interest in this contender