The New York Knicks have been mentioned in rumors ahead of next week’s trade deadline.
But one NBA analyst believes it will be a quiet deadline for New York.
ESPN NBA analyst Bobby Marks previewed the deadline for all 30 teams. He doesn’t expect the Knicks to make any major moves.
“A roster shakeup is unlikely, unless New York wants to explore trades for Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges,” Marks said. “This summer, Towns is eligible to sign a four-year, $275 million extension.”
More: Knicks interested in several veterans this trade season
Marks said the Knicks could target playmaking and shooting at the deadline or look to shed salary. New York is dangerously close to the second apron.
“The Knicks are $148,000 below the second-apron hard cap and not allowed to sign a 15th player until April 2,” Marks said. “To open a spot, the Knicks could choose to trade Guerschon Yabusele or Pacome Dadiet.”
Yabusele hasn’t found consistent minutes with the Knicks after signing with the team last offseason. Dadiet has played in just 18 of the team’s 45 games this season. The two combine to make around $8 million.
Deuce McBride and Mitchell Robinson are both extension-eligible this offseason. The Knicks will have to make additional moves if they want to keep both players around.
“Removing Yabusele’s $5.8 million salary next season would allow New York to re-sign center Mitchell Robinson and possibly remain below the second apron,” Marks said. “The Knicks are projected to be $16.3 million below entering the offseason.”
The Knicks (27-18) return to action Tuesday night against the Sacramento Kings.
