Knicks Aren't Just Keeping Tabs on 76ers' Joel Embiid

The New York Knicks seem to one day hope Joel Embiid becomes available, but he's not the only superstar they are keeping their eyes on.

The New York Knicks want to swing for the fences in the NBA trade market.

So far, the Philadelphia 76ers’ Atlantic Division rivals have struggled to knock one out of the park.

Last summer, the Knicks were heavily involved in the trade market for Utah Jazz star Donovan Mitchell. Most would’ve put their money on Mitchell landing in the Big Apple, but the Cleveland Cavaliers swooped in and won the sweepstakes.

A lot has been said about the Knicks’ regret of not getting a deal done for Mitchell last season, but they haven’t put their heads down. As the Jalen Brunson era is off to a stellar start in New York, the Knicks are keeping a few of the NBA’s biggest names on their radar.

All summer long, Sixers center Joel Embiid has been linked to the Knicks. Coming off an MVP season, another second-round exit for Philadelphia led many to question whether Embiid would grow disgruntled and request a trade or not.

Sure, Embiid’s comments in a discussion with Maverick Carter in July didn’t help throw cold water on the speculation of his future, but the Sixers seem certain that the All-Star big man is still sold on the team’s long-term plans, and there is absolutely no plan to entertain offers for the MVP. 

New York will continue to keep a close eye on the Sixers’ situation with the six-time All-Star center, but they haven’t limited their options to just one superstar big man. Over in Milwaukee, the Bucks have some question marks surrounding their situation with Giannis Antetokounmpo.

And to no surprise, the Knicks are reportedly watching.

What’s the Latest on Giannis?

Discussing his future with the Bucks’ organization, Giannis made it clear there’s no guarantee he will sign an extension with Milwaukee, according to a New York Times piece.

While the Greek Freak’s future in Milwaukee was previously in question before he inked a long-term extension, he’s singing a different tune this time around.

Recently, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst made a bold prediction about Antetokounmpo’s future. When asked whether Antetokounmpo would sign his next contract with the Bucks or another team, Windhorst chose the latter situation.

“If I had to predict, I would say probably elsewhere,” Windhorst said.

What Are the Knicks Thinking?

SNY’s Ian Begley speculates that each future Knicks move could be made with Giannis “in mind.” While he doesn’t believe the Knicks are operating as if the Milwaukee Bucks’ superstar is theirs for the taking, he believes they will keep tabs on the former MVP and will be prepared to make an offer if the time comes when the Bucks are taking calls on Antetokounmpo’s availability.

Basically, anything you’ve heard about the Knicks’ interest in Joel Embiid, you’ll hear the same about Antetokounmpo. And like Philly’s front office, the Bucks are unlikely to seriously entertain any trade discussions centered around their franchise player.

The Bucks might not be totally comfortable with their current situation, but they haven’t reached the stage where they should feel obligated to break everything down and start over. Giannis might’ve thrown out a warning shot — but it was less about wanting to re-locate — and more about encouraging everybody to get on the same page after a shocking first-round exit.