"George McGinnis: A Legendary What-If for the Knicks and Sixers"
The New York Knicks' failed pursuit of George McGinnis in 1975, which would have made him the highest-paid player in team history, had a significant impact on the franchise's future. The Knicks agreed to buy out McGinnis' contract with the Indiana Pacers, but the trade was voided by the NBA commissioner, resulting in a hefty fine and the loss of their first-round draft pick. This failed pursuit also prevented the Knicks from trading for Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and acquiring Julius Erving from the Nets. The Knicks' missed opportunities ultimately hindered their success and kept them from remaining at the top of the NBA.