The New York Knicks had two 3-and-D style players in mind in the 2021 NBA draft. With the front office targeting Oregon guard Chris Duarte, the Knicks found themselves between a rock and a hard place. Trying to move up in the draft, they failed to execute with a partner, settling for their second-tier option, Houston stand-out Quentin Grimes.
However, despite missing out on Duarte, the Knicks were still looking to acquire his services after the draft finished.
According to the Indy Star, the Knicks were in hot pursuit of Chris Duarte even after the draft concluded:
Long after the NBA Draft concluded Thursday, there were exchanges between the Pacers, Golden State Warriors and New York Knicks for the 6-6 forward.