The New York Knicks are separating themselves from the rest of the pack in their pursuit of Cleveland Cavaliers guard Collin Sexton, according to The Athletic's Shams Charania.
The Knicks are apparently the most aggressive suitor for a potential Sexton trade on the heels of reports that the third-year pro is "very available."
Sexton is entering the final year of a four-year, $20.1-million deal, and he will pocket $6.3 million this season before becoming a restricted free agent next summer. The Alabama product would then be eligible to sign a five-year, $168-million max contract with Cleveland.
The 22-year-old posted career-best averages of 24.3 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.1 rebounds in 60 games this season on 47.5% shooting from the field and 37.1% from deep.
Sexton became just the 16th player in league history to average 24 or more points with a true shooting mark of at least 57% at age 22 or younger. The other 15 players all went on to earn All-Star recognition, including Devin Booker and Trae Young.
Cleveland's front office reportedly remains hesitant to table a max deal for Sexton. The Cavs' backcourt is boosted by the emerging presences of Darius Garland and Isaac Okoro, and the team possesses the No. 3 pick in the upcoming draft and is expected to choose between guards Jalen Green and Jalen Suggs.
