Knicks plan to go star hunting during the summer

The New York Knicks made it to the Eastern Conference semifinals despite having an injury-riddled roster. 

Mitchell Robinson and Julius Randle were both major losses. OG Anunoby's body broke down as the postseason wore on. And Bojan Bogdanovic's scoring ability was undoubtedly missed. 

Nevertheless, Tom Thibodeau's team battled on every possession, earning praise for its never-say-die approach. 

According to The Athletic's Fred Katz, the Knicks will look to build on their encouraging performances this season by looking to add another star talent in the offseason.

"The organization is still targeting the upcoming summer as the time to trade for the next big name, league sources tell The Athletic," Katz reported. "...Karl-Anthony Towns, Paul George on an opt-in-and-trade, the Miami Heat breaking it down, Donovan Mitchell again, the Phoenix Suns retooling — whatever happens, the Knicks plan to inject themselves into the conversation." 

New York is a big market. The history of the franchise would appeal to any basketball purist. However, star talents want to win. With the Knicks' recent surge up the Eastern Conference, they're likely to be a viable destination in the coming years. If the front office can lock down Jalen Brunson's long-term future, they will become even more of an attractive prospect. 

Thibodeau's team is one star away from being a legitimate contender. If they can bring in another All-Star-caliber player, they could rival the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks for the top seed in the East next season. Of course, the front office must be smart in how it approaches its search. The Knicks are where they are due to smart recruitment. 

Adding a star just for their name is not the way to go. The Knicks play a specific brand of basketball. Whoever they bring in must fit that style of play. Otherwise, things could unravel incredibly fast.