The New York Knicks significantly improved in the 2023-24 season. Sure, they technically only won three more games than they did in 2022-23. But last year's playoff experience was clearly beneficial. Unfortunately, injuries robbed the Knicks of any opportunity at a deeper playoff run, and New York's season fizzled out in the second round, again. Should New York give itself a chance to make a healthy run next season? Maybe. But the allure of adding another superstar to play with All-NBA point guard Jalen Brunson could be too tempting to pass up. So, let's explore some realistic trade scenarios for the Knicks, as trade season is only a few weeks away.
In-demand Knicks players and other assets
Before we dive into trade targets, there are some items to clear up. First, New York owns a war chest worth of draft capital. They have all of their own first-round picks, the Dallas Mavericks' 2024 first-rounder, the Washington Wizards' top-10 protected pick in 2025, and the Detroit Pistons' top-13 protected pick in 2025. Granted, none of those picks will end up being too valuable. But together, they can inspire a rebuilding team to make a move.
Bojan Bogdanovic's contract is guaranteed for $2 million. But the value in adding him was not only his ability to impact games, but the $19 million contract he represents if New York picks up his team option. That's a valuable asset as it represents a decent chunk of money in a trade. And it's an expiring deal, making it all the more valuable.
Julius Randle's contract is another deal the Knicks might have to consider moving. Randle has been a valuable contributor. But he could also be in demand by trade partners. He averaged 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in 46 games this season. And despite his recent shoulder injury, he is normally rather resilient. Randle will make $30 million in 2024-25. He has a player option for 2025-26, although rumors are already circulating that New York could extend him this offseason.
Finally, Miles McBride will probably be in demand in any deal. He demonstrated his value this season after Immanuel Quickley was traded to the Toronto Raptors in late December. His defense remained stout, and he showed considerable development on his shot and his feel for the game. McBride is signed through 2026-27 on an incredibly affordable deal.
Mikal Bridges
Oh, sweet irony. The Knicks now desire a player to whom they were closely tied prior to the 2018 NBA Draft. Such is life. But adding Mikal Bridges makes a lot of sense for New York, if the price is right.
While Bridges is already equipped to life in New York (technically, Brooklyn), there is still a major hurdle. The Knicks and Nets have been in a weird cold war, of sorts, since the Nets moved to Brooklyn. But the Nets have clearly conceded that they must undergo an organic rebuild, similar to what Leon Rose did for the Knicks a few years ago.
If a deal could be reached, Bridges would fit perfectly. Assuming the Knicks sent Randle out in a deal, Bridges and Anunoby could play the forward positions. Completion of the Villanova reunion is highly desirable, at least to most players on the Knicks. But it's worth noting that Bridges hasn't matched Randle's output thus far in his career. So, buyer beware.
Donovan Mitchell
The Donovan Mitchell-to-New York rumors are extremely well established. But Brunson's rise could put a damper on them. Having two small guards in your starting lineup is not ideal. But a Brunson-Mitchell pairing could be unguardable on the offensive end. The idea of adding Mitchell is especially alluring given the obvious need for a second playmaker. New York struggled to score the ball (and even establish an offense) when Brunson sat in the 2024 playoffs. Adding Mitchell would immediately change that.
Mitchell would cost a pretty penny if he actually hits the trade market, which is no guarantee. The Cleveland Cavaliers gave up three unprotected first-round picks, two first-round pick swaps, Lauri Markkanen, Colin Sexton, and Ochai Agbaji for Mitchell. They are unlikely to get back that much, especially since Mitchell can walk in unrestricted free agency in 2025. But adding Mitchell would cost the Knicks most, if not all, of the assets they are willing to ship out, meaning he would signify the team's final move.
Devin Booker
Unlike Mitchell, Devin Booker has no say in where he plays, as he is signed through the 2027-28 season. So, the Phoenix Suns would have to be willing to entertain the idea of a rebuild for Booker to land in New York.
But that's not too far-fetched. The Suns are clearly out of options to build around their current big three. Phoenix does not control its own first-round pick until 2030. That's problematic, and New York can help restock the cupboard.
If Booker becomes available, he very well may be the best fit for the Knicks after recently being linked to them. He is just as dynamic as Mitchell, and he's significantly taller (standing 6-foot-6). That makes a tremendous difference on both sides of the floor. Booker would serve as a perfect complement for Brunson and co.
Paul George
Paul George's situation is unique in its own right. The 6-foot-8 wing has a player option for 2024-25. The Los Angeles Clippers have been hesitant to offer George a max deal. While George can opt out and sign wherever he'd like, most desirable teams are too close to the luxury tax threshold to sign him. So, a sign-and-trade could be in order.
Given the general (and relatively recent) surge in enthusiasm around the Knicks, there is reason to believe that George would entertain the idea of moving to New York. And considering George's versatility, he would easily find a role. He fits in nicely alongside Brunson, DiVincenzo, Anunoby, and Hartenstein. But that either moves Randle to the bench (which is highly unlikely) or requires him to be involved in the deal. The big question will be exactly how versatile is George? Can he spend time at the 2-guard spot?
But George is already 34 years old. Adding George is less about team building and more about hiring a mercenary. But that doesn't mean it wouldn't work. George boasts a smooth two-way game, and he is clearly willing to play second fiddle. So, while George shouldn't be the Knicks' first priority, he should be high on their list.
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The Knicks are in a great position. They were one win away from the Eastern Conference Finals (despite being seriously banged up). And they can easily add a star via trade. If they make a deliberate move, they could catapult themselves into title contention for the next few seasons. But the wrong move could hurt the team's culture. So, the Knicks must proceed carefully.
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