Several players that have been linked to the New York Knicks before the NBA trade deadline seem to have asking prices that may make moves to Gotham unlikely before Feb. 8.

Heading into a big matchup against the defending champion Denver Nuggets on Thursday night, the Knicks are one of the hottest teams in the league. Since making their trade blockbuster trade for OG Anunoby at the end of December, they are 10-2 and are quickly rising up the latest NBA standings.

However, they are still a piece or two away from being seen as a serious title contender. That is why they have been linked to several players as the NBA trade deadline grows near. Unfortunately, it seems that the current asking price for those potential deals may be too high for the organization.

On Thursday, Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype that Atlanta Hawks’ desire for two first-round draft picks in a deal for guard Dejounte Murray is a cost that the Knicks front office views as two great for the one-time All-Star. Murray has been viewed as a top target of the team for weeks.

First-round picks are the starting point for every New York Knicks trade target
Improving the bench is a top priority for New York since they gave up top reserve scorer Immanuel Quickley in the deal for OG Anunoby. Two players that rumors claim are on the Knick’s wish list are Portland Trail Blazers guard Malcolm Brogdon and new Toronto Raptors import Bruce Brown Jr.

Brogdon would be a good fit for the organization since they need another playmaker and a strong backup point guard to Jalen Brunson. However, the current going rate of “at least a first-round pick” seems a bit steep at this point. Since the organization has been holding on to its horde of first-rounders for a blockbuster deal that includes an elite star.

Not to be outdone, recent reports also suggest the Raptors are looking for a first-round selection in any deal for talented bench player Bruce Brown Jr. A player who seems like a perfect fit for the system of New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau and didn’t hide his interest in being moved to the team earlier this week.