The New York Knicks have been one of the most active teams in NBA trade discussions over the past few seasons. With the 2024–25 season in full swing, rumors surrounding the Knicks’ next big move are heating up. From pursuing top-tier talent to bolstering their depth, New York remains a team to watch on the trade market.
This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the latest Knicks trade rumors, potential targets, past acquisitions, and the impact of any possible moves.
Current Situation and knicks trade rumors
The Knicks have shown promise in the 2024–25 NBA season, boasting a solid core that includes Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and the recently acquired Karl-Anthony Towns. However, injuries and depth concerns have led to speculation that New York could still be looking to improve its roster.
Key areas of need include:
- Rim Protection and Rebounding – With Mitchell Robinson struggling with injuries, the knicks trade rumors another reliable big man to secure the paint.
- Perimeter Shooting – Despite decent shooting performances from Brunson and others, the team could use a high-volume shooter.
- Playmaking Depth – While Brunson is the primary playmaker, adding another ball-handler could ease his workload.
Walker Kessler: The Trade That Didn’t Happen
Before the trade deadline, the Knicks were reportedly aggressive in their pursuit of Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler. The 22-year-old shot-blocking specialist was viewed as an ideal fit to shore up New York’s frontcourt, particularly with Robinson’s ongoing injury woes.
Why the Knicks Wanted Kessler
Kessler is one of the NBA’s elite shot-blockers and rim protectors, making him an attractive target for a Knicks team looking to reinforce its defense. At 7 feet tall with great instincts, he would have been a seamless fit alongside Towns and Randle.
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Why the Deal Fell Through knicks trade rumors
Despite multiple attempts, the Knicks were unable to convince Utah to part with Kessler. The Jazz value him as a cornerstone for their rebuilding process, making it unlikely they would trade him without an overwhelming offer.
This failed pursuit left New York searching for other options to strengthen their center rotation.
Jonas Valanciunas: A Possible Solution in the Paint?
With their failed bid for Kessler, the Knicks turned their attention to another big man: Jonas Valanciunas of the Washington Wizards.
Why Valanciunas is a Good Fit
- Elite rebounding – The veteran center remains one of the best rebounders in the NBA.
- Scoring presence inside – Valanciunas is a reliable scorer in the post and can stretch the floor with his mid-range shot.
- Experience – The 31-year-old has playoff experience, making him a valuable addition for a team looking to make a deep run.
What Would a Trade Look Like?
The Wizards are in a rebuilding phase and may be willing to part with Valanciunas for young assets and draft picks. The Knicks could offer a package including Quentin Grimes, a future second-round pick, and salary filler to make the deal work.
Karl-Anthony Towns: The Blockbuster Trade That Changed Everything
One of the biggest moves of the 2024–25 season was the Knicks’ acquisition of Karl-Anthony Towns in a three-team knicks trade rumors involving the Minnesota Timberwolves and Charlotte Hornets.
How the Trade Went Down
- Knicks received: Karl-Anthony Towns
- Timberwolves received: RJ Barrett, a future first-round pick
- Hornets received: Evan Fournier, a second-round pick
This trade gave the Knicks an All-Star big man who could complement their current core.
How Has Towns Performed?
Towns has provided the Knicks with:
- Scoring versatility – He can dominate inside and stretch the floor with his shooting.
- Rebounding presence – His ability to clean the glass has been crucial in key games.
- Offensive firepower – He gives New York another go-to scorer alongside Brunson and Randle.
While the move has made the Knicks more competitive, there are still concerns about chemistry, particularly with Randle and Towns both needing significant touches.
Speculation on Nikola Jokic: A Dream or Reality?
One of the more outlandish rumors swirling around the NBA is the idea that Nikola Jokic could end up in New York. This speculation gained steam after Giannis Antetokounmpo jokingly suggested the possibility following Luka Dončić’s blockbuster trade to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Could the Knicks Land Jokic?
While the idea of Jokic in a Knicks jersey is exciting, it remains highly unlikely. The Denver Nuggets are built around the two-time MVP, and there is no indication they would entertain trading him.
However, the Knicks have been linked to superstar pursuits in the past. If Jokic ever became available, New York would certainly be one of the teams making an aggressive push.
Other Potential knicks trade rumors Targets
Beyond the names already discussed, here are a few other players the Knicks could target:
OG Anunoby (Toronto Raptors)
- Why he fits: One of the best two-way wings in the league, Anunoby would bolster New York’s perimeter defense.
- Possible trade package: Immanuel Quickley, draft picks, and salary filler.
Malcolm Brogdon (Portland Trail Blazers)
- Why he fits: A reliable veteran guard who can provide additional playmaking and scoring.
- Possible trade package: A young player (Miles McBride) and a future pick.
Bojan Bogdanović (Detroit Pistons)
- Why he fits: A sharpshooter who could provide instant offense off the bench.
- Possible trade package: A second-round pick and salary filler.
How Potential Trades Could Impact the Knicks’ Future
Every move the Knicks make will have a significant impact on their future. Here’s how some potential trades could shape the team:
Short-Term Impact
- Adding a center like Valanciunas would stabilize the defense and rebounding.
- Acquiring a shooter like Bogdanović would give the Knicks another offensive weapon.
- Trading for a player like Anunoby could elevate their defense to an elite level.
Long-Term Implications
- Knicks trade rumors away too many young assets could hurt their depth in the future.
- Taking on a big contract could limit future flexibility in free agency.
- Landing another All-Star-caliber player could turn the Knicks into legitimate title contenders.
Will the Knicks Make a Major Move Before the Playoffs?
As the trade deadline approaches, the Knicks front office, led by Leon Rose, will have some tough decisions to make.
- Do they go all-in for another star?
- Do they focus on depth and role players?
- Or do they stand pat and trust their current roster?
The answer will depend on how the team performs in the next few months. If they continue to struggle with injuries or inconsistency, expect the Knicks to be aggressive in the trade market.
Conclusion
The New York knicks trade rumors have already made a splash by acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns, but rumors suggest they are not done making moves. Whether it’s adding a defensive anchor like Walker Kessler, a reliable big man like Jonas Valanciunas, or a sharpshooter like Bojan Bogdanović, the Knicks remain a team to watch in the trade market.
With their eyes set on a deep playoff run, New York will have to decide whether to push all their chips in or maintain flexibility for the future. Either way, expect the Knicks to remain at the center of trade rumors as the season progresses.