The New York Knicks enter the 2024-2025 NBA season with a sense of optimism and expectation. Following a solid 2023-2024 campaign, the franchise is poised to make some key moves to push its way into true contender status in the Eastern Conference. With a talented roster headlined by Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and the recently acquired Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks are looking to capitalize on the momentum. But as always, trade rumors are swirling, and the Knicks have multiple paths they can pursue to bolster their roster.
Let’s dive into the New York Knicks trades and rumors that could shape the upcoming season, exploring both realistic options and potential strategies that could push them toward a deep playoff run.
1. Bolstering the Backcourt: The Need for a Backup Point Guard
One of the most persistent New York Knicks trades and rumors revolves around their need for a reliable backup point guard. While Jalen Brunson has been stellar as the Knicks’ primary ball-handler, the team lacks depth at the position. This could become an issue in the playoffs, where injuries and fatigue often take a toll. There are a few intriguing options on the trade market that the Knicks could explore:
- Tyus Jones (Washington Wizards): Jones has long been considered one of the best backup point guards in the league and now finds himself starting for the Wizards. However, Washington is in rebuild mode and might be open to moving veterans for draft assets. Jones would provide steady playmaking and defense off the bench.
- Malcolm Brogdon (Portland Trail Blazers): Brogdon’s name has come up in Knicks’ rumors due to Portland’s youth movement. While Brogdon could start for many teams, his versatility allows him to slot in as a high-quality sixth man, providing scoring and playmaking when Brunson rests. His experience could also be invaluable in the playoffs.
- Monte Morris (Detroit Pistons): Another low-cost option could be Monte Morris, who is currently with Detroit. Morris is a smart, efficient guard who minimizes mistakes and runs an offense well. He wouldn’t require a huge trade package, making him an appealing target if the Knicks want to preserve their future assets.
2. The Pursuit of Wing Depth
Another area of focus in the New York Knicks trades and rumors has been improving their wing depth. After adding Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks have a strong frontcourt, but they could still use additional depth at the wing, especially a two-way player who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions.
- OG Anunoby (Toronto Raptors): Anunoby has been linked to trade talks for the last few seasons, and he would be a perfect fit for the Knicks. His defensive versatility and ability to knock down three-pointers would elevate New York’s defense, particularly in the playoffs when matchups become crucial. However, acquiring Anunoby would come at a high cost—likely requiring young players like Quentin Grimes or RJ Barrett, along with draft capital.
- Matisse Thybulle (Portland Trail Blazers): If the Knicks are looking for a cheaper option, Matisse Thybulle could be an interesting target. While not the offensive threat Anunoby is, Thybulle is one of the best perimeter defenders in the league. His ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses could provide the Knicks with a specialist for playoff series against teams with elite scorers.
- Bojan Bogdanović (Detroit Pistons): For a more offensive-minded approach, Bogdanović is another name tied to the Knicks. While not the defensive stalwart the team might need, Bogdanović offers elite shooting and scoring from the wing. The Knicks have often lacked reliable outside shooting in recent years, and Bogdanović’s scoring punch could help relieve pressure from Brunson and Randle in crunch time.
3. Building the Superteam: Pursuing a Third Star
In the NBA, star power is paramount. While the Knicks have two All-Star-caliber players in Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle (and now Karl-Anthony Towns), there are persistent rumors that New York may not be done shopping for star talent. Adding a third star could vault them into the title contender conversation. So, who’s available?
- Zach LaVine (Chicago Bulls): One of the most talked-about names in New York Knicks trades and rumors is Zach LaVine. The Bulls have struggled to make noise in the Eastern Conference, and there’s speculation that LaVine could be on the move if Chicago decides to hit the reset button. LaVine is a prolific scorer who could add much-needed offensive firepower to the Knicks. However, acquiring LaVine would be costly, likely requiring the Knicks to part ways with RJ Barrett and several draft picks.
- Pascal Siakam (Toronto Raptors): Another intriguing option is Pascal Siakam. The Raptors have been at a crossroads for the last couple of seasons, and Siakam’s name has frequently come up in trade rumors. Siakam is a versatile forward who can score, defend, and pass at a high level, making him a perfect complement to Brunson and Randle. The downside? Toronto would likely demand a significant return, including young players and draft picks.
- Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers): While not an immediate trade option, there’s ongoing speculation that Donovan Mitchell may want out of Cleveland after the 2024-2025 season. Mitchell, a New York native, has long been linked to the Knicks, and the Cavaliers’ inability to advance deep in the playoffs could open the door for a trade request. If the Knicks are willing to wait, they could land Mitchell without giving up too much this season, positioning them to make a blockbuster trade in the future.
4. Improving the Bench: Targeting Role Players
While the Knicks’ starting lineup is strong, the bench could use some reinforcements. Smart teams understand that a deep bench is critical during a grueling 82-game season and in the playoffs, where role players can swing games. Let’s explore some potential role-player acquisitions that have come up in New York Knicks trades and rumors:
- Kelly Oubre Jr. (Philadelphia 76ers): Oubre is known for his streaky scoring and energy off the bench. He could give the Knicks an instant offense option to lead the second unit while also contributing on the defensive end. Oubre’s shooting touch has improved, and he would thrive in a Knicks system that values hustle and grit.
- Alex Caruso (Chicago Bulls): If New York wants to bolster their defense and add a high-IQ player to their rotation, Alex Caruso would be a fantastic fit. Caruso is a tenacious perimeter defender who plays with an edge, making him a perfect player for Tom Thibodeau’s system. Caruso’s contract is also team-friendly, making this a realistic trade possibility if the Knicks are willing to part with some future picks or bench players.
Trade Targets and Salary Cap Flexibility
While the Knicks have made significant strides by landing a star player like Karl-Anthony Towns, they still have crucial decisions to make when it comes to navigating the salary cap and maximizing the flexibility of their roster. With big contracts already on the books—Julius Randle, Jalen Brunson, and now Towns—the Knicks have limited cap space to work with, but they are far from out of options.
One strategy the Knicks could pursue is targeting players who are on expiring contracts or who could be available at a bargain price due to contract disputes or team dynamics. For instance, Pascal Siakam, currently with the Toronto Raptors, has been in trade talks given the Raptors’ uncertain direction. Acquiring a player like Siakam, known for his defensive versatility and offensive capabilities, would further bolster the Knicks’ frontcourt. However, making such a move would likely involve the Knicks offering up some of their younger assets like Immanuel Quickley or Quentin Grimes, along with draft picks.
Additionally, the Knicks could look to offload contracts such as Evan Fournier’s to free up cap space and pursue mid-season buyout candidates or role players from teams looking to rebuild. Players like Caris LeVert or Malik Beasley—if made available by their respective teams—could be valuable contributors, especially in bolstering the Knicks’ bench and providing additional scoring depth.
Despite limited cap flexibility, the Knicks still have assets, including future draft picks and younger talents, that make them well-positioned to strike favorable deals. By being judicious with their remaining cap space and leveraging expiring contracts or underperforming players, the Knicks can continue to upgrade their roster while keeping their future options open.
This focus on financial flexibility, combined with strategic trades, will be crucial for the Knicks as they navigate the rest of the season and position themselves as long-term contenders.
Conclusion: The Knicks’ Path Forward
The 2024-2025 NBA season is filled with possibilities for the New York Knicks, and the New York Knicks trades and rumors are keeping fans on the edge of their seats. Whether it’s targeting a third star like Zach LaVine or Pascal Siakam, shoring up the bench with players like Kelly Oubre Jr. or Alex Caruso, or pursuing a much-needed backup point guard, the Knicks have several viable options to improve their roster.
The addition of Karl-Anthony Towns has already signaled the Knicks’ willingness to make bold moves, but they still have some holes to fill if they want to compete for a championship. As the trade deadline approaches, expect the Knicks to be aggressive in pursuing deals that can help them reach the next level. Whether through realistic acquisitions or a blockbuster trade that shakes up the Eastern Conference, one thing is clear—the New York Knicks are all in, and their fans can expect a wild ride this season.
