No. 1: New York Knicks
Similar to the Los Angeles Lakers, if a star is set to be traded in the NBA, the New York Knicks will be tossed around in rumors. Plus, they have one of the better trade packages around the league to offer the Washington Wizards.
After making it to the second round of the playoffs this past season, the Knicks will undoubtedly be looking to capitalize on their success this summer, and a trade for Bradley Beal could help them do just that.
They were in need of extra shot creation throughout the playoffs, as Jalen Brunson was left to carry a very heavy load. Adding Beal to the mix would give them another guy to run their offense through.
New York wouldn’t have to worry about Brunson having to do everything on the offensive end, using Beal as the primary scorer on nights when he and Julius Randle have an off night.
The Wizards would be getting back their new centerpiece in RJ Barrett, who is one of the better players they will likely be offered in a potential Beal package.
He’s had a solid career thus far, but given more freedom to play his game, he could potentially emerge into the star many were expecting him to be coming out of the draft.
Obi Toppin would be another great piece, as he could use more freedom, too, and the multiple future draft picks would be a nice bonus.
And since the Knicks have a plethora of picks, they can offer more than other teams without feeling as though they are emptying their entire draft cabinet, giving them a slight advantage.
Potential starting lineups
Knicks: Jalen Brunson, Bradley Beal, Josh Hart, Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson
Wizards: Monte Morris, RJ Barrett, Corey Kispert, Deni Avdija, Kristaps Porzingis