Trade & Free Agency 2026/2027

[Knutsen]

I think they will pursue winning with these young developing players being involved in the mix to the full extent they can merit. I see some minutes being given because they need them, but some will only be given if they earn them and are the most valuable solution. Hopefully that turns into a huge amount, by the end of the season. But a bit of winning will be what drives it all (or its absence will lead to problems). 

I think Kyrie is going to play way more, and have way more impact, than is generally expected. I think his presence on the floor matters way more than people realize. He and Flagg imo will be the keys to the winning they need.

I mean that’s kind of the conundrum of combining a developmental season with not having a first round pick next year - there’s nothing to lose by being average or even good. 

It shouldn’t be limiting the developmental part, but should instead enhance building winning habits and mindsets that you don’t get when you force loses to maximize your draft position, right?