3 Key Knicks Who Might Be Traded This Offseason
The New York Knicks have reemerged as a winning franchise thanks to the arrival of Jalen Brunson and, more recently, Karl-Anthony Towns. But the big question remains: are the Knicks true championship contenders?
The upcoming playoffs will be the ultimate test.
However, the regular season has painted a somewhat grim picture for New York’s chances of conquering the East and making a legitimate run at an NBA title.
The Knicks are a combined 0-5 this season against the Cleveland Cavaliers and Boston Celtics—the two teams sitting above them in the Eastern Conference standings. If the Knicks fall short of expectations this postseason, they are expected to shake things up.
If the Knicks do decide to make moves, the big question becomes: who should they trade?
Brunson and Towns are likely untouchable, which leaves OG Anunoby and his hefty $164 million contract as the most obvious trade chip.
For Knicks fans wondering if trading Mikal Bridges might be a smarter move, it’s not a bad thought. However, dealing Bridges wouldn’t free up nearly as much cap space as moving Anunoby, given that Bridges is set to make under $25 million next season as opposed to Anunoby's $39.6 million.
Shedding Anunoby’s contract this summer in exchange for expiring deals and draft capital could give the Knicks much-needed flexibility heading into 2026 as they aim to retool around Brunson and Towns
As for Josh Hart, trading him doesn’t seem wise. He’s a tremendous two-way player on a team-friendly deal, earning less than $20 million next season before modest increases in the following years.
What the Knicks really need is a third star—someone who can defend at a high level and create their own shot. While Brunson and Towns are All-Stars, Brunson’s size makes him a challenging primary scorer to build a contender around, as heavy usage could lead to wear and tear.
Acquiring an elite wing should be the Knicks’ top priority. Not only would it take pressure off Brunson, but it would also give New York the star power needed to compete with Boston and Cleveland for years to come.
Image - Bill Streicher-Imagn
