NBA Trade Earthquake: LeBron James Headed to New York in Shocking Trade for OG Anunoby and More

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Knicks-Lakers trade proposal sends LeBron James to New York for OG Anunoby and more originally appeared on The Sporting News

There continue to be rumors that the Los Angeles Lakers could eventually move on from LeBron James. While it seems very unlikely given James’ status on and off the courts, nothing can ever be counted out in today’s NBA.

If he ends up getting moved, there’s a short list of teams that could realistically trade for him due to the package the Lakers would likely be looking for. That includes the New York Knicks, a team that might be willing to part ways with some of their win-now players and a first-round pick.

Sports Illustrated’s Mark Morales-Smith proposed a trade idea that would send James to the Knicks for that type of package, noting that a third team might have to get involved if the Knicks want to complete this deal.

Knicks receive: LeBron James, Bronny James

Lakers receive: Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, first-round pick

“New York adds an absolute legend of the game, who brings infinite experience and four championship rings. His leadership and playmaking skills are enough to push the Knicks into the NBA Finals this season. Despite being 40 years old, James is somehow still playing as top 10 player in the league. While Hart and Anunoby are good players, being able to add an elite superstar to the roster without losing Jalen Brunson or Karl-Anthony Towns is a slam dunk trade for a team trying to win now,” he wrote.

James is an incredible player still at this stage of his career, as one could even argue that he’s a top 10 to 15 player in the NBA.

However, moving on from OG Anunoby might not be as simple as it sounds.

Anunoby is one of the better wing defenders in the NBA, and that can’t go unnoticed for a team looking to win a championship.

Perhaps if it only cost him and the pick, it’s worth bringing in arguably the greatest player to ever lace them up, but the Knicks have to be mindful of this situation, as they don’t want to find themselves giving up a player who might be a key piece to a championship team.