As the NBA trade deadline approaches at 3 p.m. ET on Thursday, significant uncertainty surrounds the New York Knicks’ plans amid Karl-Anthony Towns trade rumors. Despite trade chatter, the Knicks have been performing well lately and are aiming to close the gap with the leading Detroit Pistons while also staying involved in conversations about acquiring Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Ongoing Speculation Regarding Knicks and Giannis Antetokounmpo
New York has maintained a presence in discussions to acquire Giannis, even as other teams assemble large offers. According to a source familiar with the situation, the Knicks remain in the mix for the Bucks’ superstar. However, obtaining Antetokounmpo would likely require the Knicks to dismantle much of their current roster, possibly including key players like OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Karl-Anthony Towns.
While the prospect of acquiring a player of Giannis’s caliber understandably attracts calls, the repercussions of such a trade could be drastic. League insiders have noted that Milwaukee is prioritizing impact players during negotiations, which complicates the potential trade dynamics for New York.
Potential Moves Beyond a Giannis Deal
If the Knicks decide against pursuing Antetokounmpo, they may still explore other trade possibilities to strengthen their squad at the deadline. There is at least some indication that Towns could be on the trading block, although not necessarily in a blockbuster deal.
“In talking to teams around the league, a few executives don’t believe that Towns is off limits ahead of Thursday’s deadline,”
James L. Edwards III of The Athletic wrote.
Despite this, many analysts, including Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley, suggest that the Knicks should avoid dismantling their roster in a desperate attempt to land Giannis. This view aligns with the opinion that trading Towns, especially outside of a Giannis deal, would be unwise.
Evaluating Karl-Anthony Towns’ Season and Team Dynamics
Although Towns, who is 30 years old, has struggled offensively this season, his rebounding remains strong and has contributed to the Knicks’ recent success, where they currently exhibit the playstyle of a title contender. Friction reportedly exists between Towns and the organization, particularly due to talks last summer regarding Giannis, which created tension still present today. Additionally, Towns has not been offered an extension despite being eligible.
“Sam Amick reported last week that New York’s talks with the Bucks last summer about acquiring Antetokounmpo created hard feelings with Towns that are still present. Furthermore, Towns hasn’t been given an extension even though he was eligible for one.”
Nevertheless, the Knicks appear to hold confidence in their existing roster and value the players they currently have.
“The Knicks believe in this team,”
said ESPN’s Brian Windhorst on Get Up!
“They believed in the team last summer when Giannis was loosely available in those discussions.”
Trade Value and Future Considerations for Towns
If the Knicks truly believe in their current lineup, they are unlikely to accept any low-value return for Towns. Industry evaluations suggest that any trade involving Towns, excluding a Giannis-related deal, would mostly bring back salary-matching players and perhaps minor draft picks.
“Assuming Towns is moved but not in a deal involving Antetokounmpo, the return is expected to be salary-matching players and, maybe, small draft compensation,”
Edwards shared.
While some role players might fit the Knicks’ roster, it’s uncertain whether any would significantly improve the team compared to keeping Towns. Patience appears prudent, allowing Towns to continue his strong rebounding and potentially regain his offensive form as the postseason approaches.
If Towns’ performance and relationship with the team fail to improve by the offseason, the Knicks can then reassess his future. Currently, Towns remains under contract through next season with a player option for 2026-27, despite not receiving an extension once eligible.
