NBA legend Magic Johnson makes his feelings clear on Kevin Durant’s fit with New York: “Knicks are too slow”

The New York Knicks have been rumored to be interested in acquiring Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant. NBA insider Shams Charania reported early in June that the Knicks “made an offer for KD” before the February trade deadline. Although the former MVP remained in The Valley, the Eastern Conference powerhouse could resume their chase of Durant in the offseason.

During Thursday’s Get Up, NBA legend Magic Johnson tossed in his thoughts about Durant potentially playing in New York.

“I think Giannis [Antetokounmpo] stays in Milwaukee, but Kevin Durant, that’s an interesting piece. The Knicks are too slow. … They’re gonna get a little faster. To me, Kevin Durant will allow them to get faster and be a guy that can help Brunson in the fourth quarter. … I like Kevin Durant playing with the Knicks. I really do.”

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Per NBA.com stats, the Knicks averaged 97.64 possessions per game, which ranked 26th in the regular season. Jalen Brunson was even more deliberate in running the offense in the playoffs, leaning heavily on half-court sets to beat opponents. They averaged 95.89 possessions per contest, ninth among 16 teams.

Johnson continued that adding the versatile scorer would allow the Knicks to play a more uptempo style. The LA Lakers icon believed KD would give Brunson a huge lift as another legitimate threat to score in clutch situations.

Fans react to Magic Johnson’s comments about Kevin Durant playing for the Knicks

Magic Johnson’s comments often stir social media. When the five-time champ and NBA legend speaks, fans usually respond to his analysis. Some jumped on X (formerly Twitter) to react to his thoughts about a potential Durant-Knicks union.

The Ultimate Warrior

@ChristFaithNow

LINK

Durant would be great anywhere as long as you dont have to sacrifice players

One fan said:

Stacy- The Options Dog

@sroberso52

LINK

the 37 year old would make thing faster??! hahahaha

Another fan added:

Fitz

@bradfitz76

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Magic also picked the Knicks and TWolved to win and go to the Finals.

One more fan continued:

Nycky Towerz

@Cheo_jr21

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Magic buddy sit this one out

Another fan reacted:

Don Lipsy

@UofADon

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KD is great. KD is also 36.

Why continue to ask Magic for opinions on a modern game where he was entirely unsuccessful as a coach and front office person?

Being one of the all-time best players doesn’t make him qualified to understand how the game is being played in 2025.

According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the Suns are trying to revamp the roster after “two underachieving and expensive seasons.” Durant, earning $54.7 million next season, could leave the team following the 2025-26 campaign. After failing to trade him in the February trade deadline, the salary cap specialist added that Suns could dangle KD in trade talks.

Magic Johnson sees the New York Knicks as a good fit for Kevin Durant. And although the Suns and Durant’s agent, Rich Kleiman, are “sifting through trade scenarios,” per Shams Charania, prying him away from Phoenix will be challenging.

The Knicks must match salaries and likely include draft assets to acquire Durant. Getting KD could mean letting All-Star center Karl-Anthony Towns go.

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About the author

Michael Macasero

Michael Macasero brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his coverage of basketball at Sportskeeda with over 18 years of diverse work experience. This includes stints at Convergys, Interpace and RunRepeat.

Michael's background in English and Journalism has provided him with the analytical skills and precision necessary for creating content, and he is a lifelong fan of the Boston Celtics. His favorite players include legends like Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, modern stars like Tim Duncan, and Nikola Jokic, as well as emerging talent like Victor Wembanyama.

Michael respects Gregg Popovich, despite his contentious demeanor in interviews, and recognizes Popovich's genius in adapting his coaching style to maximize the talent on his roster over the years. Michael eagerly anticipates seeing how Popovich will structure the offense around emerging talent like Victor Wembanyama.

Understanding the story and details is crucial to Michael's reporting philosophy and he believes overlooking details, particularly when pressed for time, can lead to misunderstandings and inaccurate conclusions.

Aside from work, Michael's children are his hobbies, and he also likes to go running, swimming and weightlifting.

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