Gilbert Arenas. Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports

Gilbert Arenas believes the Knicks are still missing a star

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 1/24/24

The New York Knicks acquired OG Anunoby from the Toronto Raptors on Dec. 30. They have won 10 of their 12 games since making that trade. Furthermore, their defense has looked exceptional at times, as Tom Thibodeau has a roster littered with tough two-way players.

Nevertheless, Gilbert Arenas still believes the Knicks need to add another star talent.

"I want to see what a real young star looks like in New York," Arenas said on the 'Gil's Arena' podcast. "A Tatum, a Ja, an Ant Man in New York. When one player is the king of the city, to see what it looks like is going to be crazy. You guys have a good team. But, you guys need that star when y'all leave the building, it makes you feel proud to be a New Yorker."

Gilbert Arenas says the Knicks still need a real star

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— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) January 24, 2024

The Knicks have been holding out for a star trade for multiple seasons. Donovon Mitchell and Karl-Anthony Towns are the two players frequently liked with a potential move to The Big Apple in the near future. However, the Knicks are a good team as currently constructed.

Anunoby has helped elevate the Knicks' defense to a new level. Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle are extremely capable scorers and facilitators. Yet, New York isn't a championship-caliber team as constructed.

Yes, a genuine top-10 player or top-15 player in the NBA would transform the roster. And yes, the Knicks have the assets to make a trade like that happen.

Yet, the front office should be credited with showing restraint. They're being smart with who they target. Whichever star heads to New York has to fit with what Thibodeau has built.

They should accentuate the system and talent that's already there. Rebuilding an entire system to fit one player would be foolish after years of building in the right direction.

New York is slowly becoming a destination. The Knicks are trending in the right direction. A star trade is on the horizon. It's the final piece to New York's puzzle.

The Knicks could wait for Mitchell or prise Towns away from the Minnesota Timberwolves during the upcoming offseason. Or, another target could emerge that is immediately available.

The Knicks are waiting for their opportunity. When it comes, a sleeping giant will truly be awoken.

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