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As the NBA trade season approaches, the New York Knicks are actively monitoring the trade market in hopes of acquiring a star player, according to sources. The Knicks, currently standing at 12-8 and holding the fifth position in the Eastern Conference, are keeping a close eye on potential opportunities to bolster their roster.

With the December 15 deadline approaching, many players who signed contracts in the offseason become eligible to be traded. This has prompted the Knicks to assess the marketplace across the league and evaluate whether any star players become available for a potential deal.

The Knicks possess several valuable trade assets, including draft picks, young players, and tradeable contracts. This provides the organization with the flexibility to pursue significant trades ahead of the February 8 deadline. However, the key question remains: which star players will be on the market, and are the Knicks prepared to meet the potential asking price?

With a record of 12-8, the Knicks have surpassed expectations thus far in the season. However, the organization understands the importance of adding a marquee player to solidify their position as a top contender in the East. The coming weeks and months will reveal whether the Knicks can secure a valuable trade that could significantly impact their playoff aspirations.

In other news, the NBA's In-Season Tournament (IST) has reached its Final Four stage, where the Milwaukee Bucks will face off against the Indiana Pacers, while the Los Angeles Lakers will take on the New Orleans Pelicans. The IST has showcased intense competition, with the Bucks and Pacers set to renew their rivalry in an exciting matchup. The key matchup to watch will be between the Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton and the Trail Blazers' Damian Lillard. The game is expected to be a high-scoring affair, with both teams known for their potent offenses.

Meanwhile, the clash between the Lakers and Pelicans promises to be a captivating encounter, as Anthony Davis faces his former team. This matchup also features a battle between Davis and the Pelicans' rising star Zion Williamson. The game is generating controversy as the Lakers have been reportedly banned from wearing their black uniforms for television aesthetic reasons.

Prior to the IST semifinals, the NBA witnessed notable performances and astonishing numbers. Joel Embiid led the Philadelphia 76ers to a narrow 131-126 victory over the Washington Wizards, scoring an impressive 50 points. The Memphis Grizzlies celebrated a victory over the Detroit Pistons, albeit overshadowed by Desmond Bane's career-high 49 points. The Houston Rockets extended their dominance at home, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder with the help of Aaron Holiday's 22 points off the bench. The Minnesota Timberwolves continued their winning streak, defeating the San Antonio Spurs and marking their league-leading eighth game holding opponents under 100 points.

The Cleveland Cavaliers secured a victory over the Orlando Magic, thanks to remarkable performances from Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell, who combined for 61 points and 15 assists. Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks stunned the Utah Jazz with a 50-point margin victory, driven by Luka Dončić's stellar play. The Los Angeles Clippers showed impressive energy as they defeated the Denver Nuggets, while the Golden State Warriors managed a close win against the Portland Trail Blazers despite missing key players.

The Brooklyn Nets triumphed over the struggling Atlanta Hawks, with Mikal Bridges delivering an outstanding performance, including the game-winning shot. Lastly, the Miami Heat showcased resilience on the road, defeating the Toronto Raptors without their star player Bam Adebayo.

As the trade season heats up and the IST reaches its Final Four stage, NBA fans can expect more thrilling matchups and potential trades in the coming weeks. The New York Knicks' involvement in the trade market adds an exciting element to the evolving landscape of the league.