The Knicks may not want to part with their top talent in a deal for Anthony Davis.
Some within the New York organization are “uncomfortable with the idea of trading away significant assets for” the 26-year-old Pelicans star, according to a report from SNY, which cites unidentified league sources.
The six-time All-Star told the Pelicans in late January he did not plan to re-sign when he could opt out of his contract after 2019-20 and asked the team to move him.
New Orleans executive vice president David Griffin has begun listening to offers for Davis and is asking for an “All-Star player, a young player with All-Star potential and two first-round picks” in exchange for him, according to an earlier report from ESPN. The team also could be open to a three-team deal.
The Knicks and Lakers are Davis' "two desired long-term destinations," according to The Athletic, while the Clippers and Nets have also inquired about a potential deal.
The Pelicans finished 2018-19 with a 33-49 record and missed the playoffs for the third time in four seasons. But, they surprisingly jumped up in the lottery and will have the No. 1 pick in the 2019 draft, which is widely expected to be former Duke star Zion Williamson.
Griffin, who was hired in mid-April, believes the team may be able to convince Davis to re-evaluate his decision not to ink an extension.
"There are a lot reasons for him to believe that this will be different," Griffin told NBA TV in May. "What it starts with is just us doing what we say we're going to do, one step at a time. Over time, I think he's going to see there is a trust level that he should have in us.
"I believe strongly he has always wanted to be part of the market, but, understandably, the kid wants to win."
Davis averaged 25.9 points and 12 rebounds in 56 games last season.
The Knicks, meanwhile, are hoping to have a busy offseason as they’re expected to pursue multiple stars. They also hold the No. 3 pick in the upcoming draft.