In a world where NBA rumors spread faster than a note passed in middle school math class, no player is immune to being tossed into fantasy trades. One of the biggest repeat targets? Anthony Davis.

Whether during his New Orleans days or now in Los Angeles, Davis constantly finds himself at the center of hypothetical trade mazes. But in one of the strangest plot twists in recent NBA history, he currently sits in a complicated situation with the Dallas Mavericks.

After being flipped for Luka Dončić—a deal fans still struggle to wrap their heads around—Davis has spent most of his Dallas tenure in street clothes, recovering from injuries while the organization searches desperately for answers.

Among all the proposed landing spots fans dream up for Davis, the New York Knicks have recently jumped to the top of the list. With early-season struggles from Karl-Anthony Towns and a bench group more trade-flexible than ever, many believed the Knicks would take a serious look at the eight-time All-Star.

Knicks insider Ian Begley, however, poured cold water on the speculation.

“In terms of Anthony Davis, I don't see it happening given the construction of the team, and I'm not sure even with the finances, if the Knicks have what it takes to match salary there, in terms of where they are in the apron situation.”

New York currently has roughly 90% of its payroll tied to the starting lineup while hovering just below the second tax apron. That leaves almost no room to absorb Davis’ contract. And from a fan perspective, Davis’ lengthy injury history alone would create hesitation, making an aggressive move even more unlikely.

Begley did reveal an intriguing detail from Davis’ past, offering a new layer to the conversation.

“It's interesting, though, because when Anthony Davis was with the Pelicans, and they were figuring out their future… I was told that the Knicks were on Anthony Davis' radar as a place where he was interested in going.”

Half a decade ago, perhaps the Knicks needed Davis more than Davis needed them. But today’s roster construction tells a different story. OG Anunoby is set to return within the week, Mikal Bridges has been a defensive anchor, and Karl-Anthony Towns appears to be turning a corner with his shooting.

Even if discussions resurfaced, it’s hard to imagine either side being satisfied with any realistic offer. Let’s just say the Knicks are more than comfortable competing for a championship instead of the past.