The New York Knicks began gauging trade interest in Kristaps Porzingis early in 2019.

According to sources, the Knicks offered a package to the New Orleans Pelicans for Anthony Davis centered around Porzingis. Dell Demps showed little interest in that discussion and the Knicks took that as a possible indication that Porzingis may not receive as much interest as they were anticipating.

Once Porzingis and his brother, Janis, discovered the Knicks were discussing a trade with the Dallas Mavericks, they asked to be moved to either the Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Clippers, Toronto Raptors or Miami Heat. The meeting was brief and Porzingis was soon traded to the Mavericks. 

Dozens of teams were confused why they never had a chance to make an offer for Porzingis.