NEW REPORT: Trading for a Star Bench Player Could Cost the New York Knicks Big

NEW REPORT: Trading for a Star Bench Player Could Cost the New York Knicks Big

As the February 6 NBA trade deadline looms, the New York Knicks face tough decisions regarding their roster, particularly when it comes to acquiring much-needed bench depth. While the team is still assessing whether to pursue a trade, there is a growing urgency to bolster their second unit, especially with Mitchell Robinson sidelined until January.

Despite solid performances from backup guards Miles McBride and Cameron Payne, the Knicks have struggled at the center position, making it clear that acquiring a reliable backup for Karl-Anthony Towns is a top priority. But making a trade will not come easily. The Knicks’ salary cap situation adds complexity to any potential move.

One of the biggest obstacles the team faces is the need to match salaries in any trade. According to the NBA’s salary cap rules, teams over the salary cap but under the first apron, which the Knicks currently are, must match salaries within 125% of outgoing contracts. However, the Knicks are $10.2 million over the first apron, which brings a stricter set of rules: trades must match salaries within 110%. This puts the Knicks in a tight spot, as they cannot simply sign a player off waivers unless the player’s salary falls within the mid-level exception.

In the event of a trade, New York would likely have to part with key bench players like Robinson or Precious Achiuwa. Robinson is earning $14.3 million this season, making him a prime candidate for a trade, while Achiuwa, signed to a one-year, $6 million deal, cannot be traded until after December 15.

The Knicks have a limited window to find viable trade targets who fit within their financial structure. A few prominent names have already emerged in trade rumors, including Jonas Valančiūnas, Steven Adams, and Walker Kessler. However, acquiring these players would likely require parting with more significant assets, especially Kessler, who is viewed as a core piece for the Utah Jazz.

It’s clear that New York will need to act carefully. The team is unlikely to trade any of its starters, such as Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, or OG Anunoby, all of whom have crucial roles. As a result, the bench will likely be the focal point of any trade discussions.

Despite these constraints, the Knicks have options. If they’re willing to trade Robinson even with his return from injury in January, they might find a way to acquire an impactful backup center. However, any deal will likely come at the cost of significant depth, which may impact New York’s ability to compete for a playoff spot.

The Knicks’ financial and roster situation will undoubtedly play a major role in their decisions in the coming months. As the trade deadline approaches, it will be fascinating to see how they balance salary cap constraints with the need to strengthen their bench for the stretch run.