NBA Rumors: New York Knicks Interested In Portland Swingman

The New York Knicks are looking to fortify their rotation for the stretch run, and have expressed interest in a very popular trade target. According to Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype, they've got their sights set on Portland Trail Blazers wing Josh Hart.

The Knicks are interested in Josh Hart, per @MikeAScotto pic.twitter.com/Zp5WMvWnJ2

— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) February 8, 2023

Hart is a "very hot" commodity at this trade deadline according to reports. The Cleveland Cavaliers have also expressed strong interest in the 6th-year wing, and the Miami Heat have been linked to him as well.

The Trail Blazers are hoping to make some moves at the deadline to strengthen their playoff hopes, and Hart is one of the assets they're dangling. The Knicks have a wing player in Cam Reddish who hasn't seen the light of day for over two months in coach Tom Thibodeau's rotation, so Hart would fill a void.

The 6'5" Hart averaged 14.9 points last season, with 7.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists. Hart has been a good defensive player through much of his career, though his defensive rating has slipped a bit this season. He's still, however, rebounding at an elite level, especially for his size, pulling down 8.2 boards per game, to go along with 9.5 points.

The 27-year-old is likely to become a free agent after this season due to an oddity in his player option which makes picking it up disadvantageous for him in future guaranteed money.

Photo: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports