News Report: New York Knicks reportedly view specific star from East rival as ‘ideal trade target’ before deadline….

A new report claims a star guard from an Eastern Conference rival could be a top target for the New York Knicks ahead of the Feb. 8 NBA trade deadline.After catching fire in November and seemingly resolving early season issues, the Knicks suffered a major setback in December.

Just when Mitchell Robinson seemed to be starting to reach his potential as the team’s defensive anchor and top rebounder, he suffered another serious injury that will sideline him for an extended period of time. Although the organization is hopeful he can return in time for the playoffs, recent reports suggest his ankle injury could be season-ending. Filling that void should be the team’s top priority as the NBA trade deadline approaches. However, it appears the organization might instead look to fill its new defensive deficiencies with an even better offense. On Sunday, SNY New York Knicks insider Ian Begley reported that “some prominent members of the organization view Atlanta’s Dejounte Murray as an ideal trade target.”Despite a star-studded backcourt with Murray and Trae Young, the Atlanta Hawks have struggled in 2023. Even with a full training camp for new head coach Quin Snyder, the team is 12 -17 heading into the holidays and is currently in the Eastern Conference offseason playoff picture. So there’s a good chance they’ll try to move it next month. The Knicks were reportedly interested in the former All-Star before he was traded from the Spurs to the Hawks in 2022. Atlanta could be an option to fill multiple needs, with rumors that ace defensive end and center Clint Capela could also be available before the deadline. New York has nine first-round selections in the next five drafts and certainly has the resources to trade both of them before February 8th. While Jalen Brunson has become a legitimate superstar during his first season and a half in Gotham, the organization has consistently looked to add another Star Guard to join him in the backcourt. Brunson went to the 2022 Western Conference Finals as a member of the Mavericks and was part of a dynamic backcourt with superstar guard Luka Doncic.