Knicks Face Trade Deadline Scrutiny
As the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 5, 2026, the New York Knicks are facing scrutiny regarding their aspirations for the NBA Finals. Despite a recent victory against the Brooklyn Nets, which halted a disappointing four-game losing streak, the team has struggled significantly, with a record of 3-9 over their last 12 outings. This performance has dropped them to the No. 3 position in the Eastern Conference, though they still hold a tiebreaker advantage over the Toronto Raptors, who are hot on their heels.
Trade Discussions and Player Speculation
As fans gear up for potential roster changes before the trade deadline, NBA Insider Ian Begley shared insights during a recent episode of ‘The Putback’, alongside Hoops Hype’s Michael Scotto. One of the most talked-about topics was the future of Karl-Anthony Towns, whose name surfaced in trade discussions following a disappointing home loss to the Dallas Mavericks.
According to reports from Steve Popper of Newsday, the Knicks have engaged with teams like the Charlotte Hornets, Memphis Grizzlies, and Orlando Magic about acquiring Towns, whose performance has waned under the current coaching staff of Mike Brown.
However, Begley noted that as of last Monday, the Knicks were not actively pursuing a trade for the star player, indicating that despite the tumultuous circumstances, no immediate moves were planned. He warned, though, that should the Knicks continue to falter, the situation could shift.
Scotto added that speculation regarding a trade involving Towns and Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo has gained traction, but he expressed skepticism about the Bucks being aggressive in pursuing such a deal. He suggested that if the Knicks were to part ways with Towns, they might need to break his salary into smaller components, akin to the deal that sent him to New York from Minnesota involving Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo.
Potential Trade Acquisitions
As for potential trade acquisitions, Guerschon Yabusele emerges as a likely candidate for the Knicks. Although he was acquired last offseason with high hopes, his fit within Brown’s system has been shaky, leading to speculation that the Knicks might look to trade him. Scotto mentioned the possibility of bundling Yabusele with a minimum-salary player or draft picks to target a more impactful acquisition.
Additionally, the Knicks have reportedly expressed interest in New Orleans Pelicans players Jose Alvarado and Yves Missi. While Alvarado’s potential adds up based on previous links, Missi, a 21-year-old center, has captured attention due to his declining minutes and production in his second season. Acquiring Missi could open trade avenues for the Knicks, potentially involving current center Mitchell Robinson, who is in the last year of his contract, along with other depth options like Ariel Hukporti.
Looking Ahead
With the trade deadline closing in, the Knicks have a critical task ahead to reinforce their roster for the playoff push, and the discussions surrounding Towns and other players will be pivotal in shaping the team’s direction as they look to enhance their prospects for the remainder of the season.
