Yesterday, the New York Knicks made headlines by acquiring Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets, reuniting him with his former Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo. This trade, which sent Bojan Bogdanovic and multiple draft picks to the Nets, completes what fans are calling the “Nova Knicks” reunion. The chemistry among these former Wildcats is expected to bring a new dynamic to the Knicks, who are eager to build on their recent playoff success and establish themselves as serious contenders in the Eastern Conference.
The acquisition of Bridges addresses one of the Knicks’ most pressing needs: adding a versatile, two-way wing who can bolster their defense and complement their offensive stars. Tom Thibodeau, known for his defensive schemes, now has another elite defender to deploy, making the Knicks’ defense even more formidable. Bridges, who finished as a runner-up for the Defensive Player of the Year just two seasons ago, brings a 7-foot-1 wingspan and exceptional defensive instincts to New York.
This move has been a long time coming, with Josh Hart frequently joking about recruiting Bridges to join the Knicks. Now that the trade is official, the Villanova connection is expected to translate into on-court chemistry, making the Knicks a team to watch in the upcoming season. Yet, the Knicks still have business to complete in the summer, with one big trade looming large.
Re-Signing OG Anunoby Is The First Step
Re-signing OG Anunoby was the logical next move for the Knicks this offseason. Anunoby, who declined his $19.9 million player option, has signed a five-year, $212.5 million deal to stay with the Knicks in the past hours, ensuring his continued presence on the team.
Anunoby’s defensive prowess and ability to switch between multiple positions make him an ideal partner for Mikal Bridges. Together, they could form one of the most elite defensive duos in the NBA, giving the Knicks a significant edge on that end of the floor. Anunoby’s performance in the 2024 season, where he averaged 14.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, highlights his value both offensively and defensively.
However, retaining Anunoby will come at a cost. The Knicks will likely lose Isaiah Hartenstein due to salary cap constraints, as Anunoby’s new contract pushes the team over the luxury tax threshold. This decision underscores the Knicks’ commitment to building a championship-caliber team around their core players.
By bringing back Anunoby, the Knicks ensure they have a formidable lineup that can compete with the best teams in the league, with the added benefit of maintaining the strong chemistry among their former Villanova stars.
A Blockbuster Trade For Karl-Anthony Towns Could Be In The Cards
Knicks receive: Karl-Anthony Towns
Timberwolves receive: Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, Miles McBride, No. 24 pick, No. 25 pick
The New York Knicks, riding the high of their recent acquisition of Mikal Bridges, are looking to add another star to their roster. Despite a strong regular season finish of 50-32, the Knicks fell short in the playoffs due to a lack of consistent offensive firepower and injuries in the second round. Enter Karl-Anthony Towns, the dynamic big man from the Minnesota Timberwolves, who could be the perfect solution.
Rumors have been swirling about a potential trade that would bring Towns to New York for a while now. The proposed trade package would send Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, Miles McBride, and the No. 24 and No. 25 picks to Minnesota in exchange for Towns. This move would provide the Knicks with a prolific scorer and versatile big man to pair with Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges, creating a formidable trio.
Towns, who averaged 21.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game in the 2024 season, has expressed a desire to stay in Minnesota, but his performance in the playoffs and the Timberwolves’ disappointing exit has led to increased trade speculation as Anthony Edwards has taken his place of the franchise cornerstone, which may lead to Towns being expendable. Despite his talent, Towns struggled in the postseason, failing to live up to expectations and leading many to believe a change of scenery could benefit both him and the Timberwolves, as they would get a big return with a ton of pieces to fit well with Edwards and Gobert.
For the Timberwolves, trading Towns would mark the end of an era but also provide a fresh start. Acquiring Randle, a proven scorer, and rebounder, along with Robinson’s elite rim protection, would strengthen their roster immediately. Getting a playmaker and shooter off the bench to back up Mike Conley like Miles McBride increases the trade appeal. The additional draft picks would give them valuable assets for rebuilding or future trades, offering flexibility as they look to improve their long-term prospects.
Randle found his calling in New York with averages of 24.0 points, 9.2 rebounds and 5.0 assists until a shoulder injury ended his season early. Mitchell Robinson, who missed the start of the season due to an ankle injury, could be the successor to Gobert’s spot in the paint, or even make the Frenchman available for trade, as the Wolves could gather even more future assets and young pieces.
This trade makes sense for both teams. The Knicks get the offensive star they need to elevate their game, while the Timberwolves gain valuable pieces to aid in their rebuild. As the offseason approaches, this blockbuster move could be the catalyst both franchises need to achieve their goals.
Key Free Agency Deals
The New York Knicks are poised to make some strategic moves in free agency to bolster their roster depth. These additions would provide the Knicks with a mix of veteran leadership, defensive strength, and offensive firepower, setting them up for a successful run in the upcoming season. Here’s a look at some potential signings:
Kyle Lowry is expected to join the Knicks as a backup point guard. Lowry, who played for the Philadelphia 76ers after a mid-season buyout from the Charlotte Hornets, averaged 8.1 points, 4.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game in the 2024 season. Given his veteran experience, the Knicks might sign him to a one-year deal worth around $3-4 million.
Andre Drummond could be signed as a backup center. Drummond, who played for the Chicago Bulls last season, averaged 8.4 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. His strong rebounding skills would be a valuable asset off the bench. Drummond is likely to sign a veteran minimum contract, approximately $2.7 million for one year.
Lonnie Walker IV, who played for the Brooklyn Nets last season, could provide scoring and athleticism off the bench. Walker averaged 9.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. The Knicks might offer him a two-year contract worth around $10-12 million.
Finally, the Knicks are expected to re-sign Precious Achiuwa. Achiuwa, who was traded from the Toronto Raptors, played a crucial role as a versatile forward, averaging 10.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. His defensive capabilities make him a valuable piece for the Knicks’ future. A likely contract would be a three-year deal worth around $30 million.
The Knicks New And Stacked Superteam
Starters: Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns
Bench: Kyle Lowry, Lonnie Walker, Josh Hart, Precious Achiuwa, Andre Drummond
With a starting lineup of Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns, the New York Knicks have formed a formidable defensive juggernaut. This lineup not only boasts elite defensive capabilities but also features versatile offensive threats. Brunson and DiVincenzo provide dynamic backcourt play, while Bridges and Anunoby offer lockdown defense on the wings. Towns adds an inside-out scoring punch, making the Knicks a nightmare for opposing teams.
The bench depth is equally impressive. Kyle Lowry, Lonnie Walker, Josh Hart, Precious Achiuwa, and Andre Drummond round out a second unit that can hold its own against any starting five in the league. Lowry’s experience and Walker’s scoring prowess will drive the offense, while Hart and Achiuwa bring tenacity and defensive versatility. Drummond’s rebounding and shot-blocking abilities will anchor the paint.
Expectations are sky-high for this Knicks squad. With such a well-rounded and deep roster, they are primed to be one of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference. The defensive rotations and ability to switch seamlessly across multiple positions make them a formidable force. This superteam is set to challenge for the NBA championship, bringing excitement and high hopes to New York fans.
