AP Photo/Frank Franklin IAccording to reports, the New York Knicks would be interested in shooting guard RJ Barrett as part of a deal for a star guard like Damian Lillard (Portland Trail Blazers) and Bradley Beal (Washington Wizards).Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, reported the interest expressed by a source from the league on Wednesday.Barrett, 21 years old, was selected by the Knicks as the third overall pick in 2019 NBA Draft. The guard played in all 72 games, scoring 17.6 points on 44.1 per cent shooting (40.1% from three-point range), 5.8 rebounding and 3.0 assists per match last year.Following a report by Chris Haynes from Yahoo Sports, trade rumors surround Lillard. It was dropped Sunday.Yahoo Sports sources said that the massive backlash caused by the Portland Trail Blazers' hiring of a coach, and his concerns about whether a champion contender can be built, are factors that could push Damian Lillard out the door.Lillard, 31, was a six-time All NBA player. He averaged 28.8 and 7.5 assists per game last year for the Blazers. He is just finishing his ninth NBA season.Beal has stated repeatedly that he wants Washington to be his home for the rest of his NBA career. However, trade rumors continue. Beal is currently under contract for the 2021-22 campaign, but has the option to play as a player for the 2022-23 season.Beal, 28, was a three-time All Star and averaged 31.3 points per game last season for the Wizards.The Knicks want to improve on a 41-31 season which saw them reach the playoffs for only the second time since 2012-13.
