The NBA trade deadline is rapidly approaching, with a little over two weeks remaining until teams finalize their rosters. One of the teams looking to make adjustments before the start of the second half of the season is the New York Knicks.
Last season, the Knicks proved to be one of the most elite teams in the league after their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 25 years. They ultimately lost to the Indiana Pacers, depriving them of a chance to compete in the NBA Finals.
Knicks Looking To Add a Missing Piece to the Puzzle
Looking at how the Knicks have performed so far this season, they seem to be ready for another deep playoff run. Entering Jan. 15 action, they are currently in second place in the East with a 25-15 record. With that in mind, an NBA insider revealed the team’s priority heading into the trade deadline.
With Jalen Brunson, who is currently dealing with an ankle injury, and Karl-Anthony Towns leading the charge and efficient players like Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, and OG Anunoby supporting them, the Knicks have been a force to be reckoned with.
While New York has looked good so far, the front office doesn’t plan on cutting corners this time around. According to NBA insider Sam Amico, the Knicks have a couple of priorities heading into the trade deadline.
Amico reported that the Knicks intend on trading Guerschon Yabusele before the deadline. Yabusele is currently signed to a two-year deal worth $11.2 million. Using him as a trade piece could land them another solid role player that could complement Brunson and Towns’ style of play.
With Yabusele now up for grabs, Amico also mentioned that the Knicks are targeting a player who can defend and handle the ball in return. New York is also looking to get another big man to help reinforce the center depth chart behind Mitchell Robinson.
“All signs point to the Knicks exploring ways to move Guerschon Yabusele ahead of the trade deadline,” Amico reported. “League sources indicate New York is prioritizing a player who can handle the ball and defend, with additional chatter about adding a reliable third-string big as insurance for Robinson.”
Several reports suggest that the Knicks are currently targeting big men like Andre Drummond and Daniel Gafford. Drummond is a versatile big man who recently picked up a jumper from beyond the arc. Meanwhile, Gafford provides an additional presence inside the paint, making the Knicks more difficult to slash through.
For now, no official transactions are being initiated by New York’s front office.
