The New York Knicks have reportedly taken a firm stance on the LeBron James rumors, and it’s a hard pass. According to Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated, the Knicks are content with their roster heading into the 2025–26 season and are not looking to shake things up by bringing in a 41-year-old superstar, no matter how legendary he may be.
“I don’t think the Knicks have an interest in LeBron James,” Mannix said on Sports Illustrated’s YouTube channel.
“The Knicks are pretty happy with what they did this offseason. They’re happy with what they got from Mike Brown. Mike Brown’s been a big hit in Vegas, like, big hit. They love the Jordan Clarkson addition. They love the Guerschon Yabusele addition.”
“They think they’ve got a rotation that’s nine or 10 deep right now. Like, they’re not looking to shake that up. Not in a conference, they think they can win with this group.”
That statement is particularly bold considering LeBron was rumored to have had the Knicks on his short list, along with the Mavericks, Cavaliers, Clippers, and Warriors, if he were to push for a trade or buyout. LeBron opted into his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season, sparking immediate speculation about a potential move. But the Knicks don’t appear to be biting.
In theory, a trade could have been worked out. New York has the pieces, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, and a combination of other assets could have formed the foundation of a deal. They even have a coach in Mike Brown who has a past relationship with LeBron, dating back to their time together in Cleveland.
But the Knicks are thinking long-term. They just made the Eastern Conference Finals with a young and talented core that includes Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Josh Hart. They’ve built depth, added shooting, and addressed playmaking.
They believe this group is ready to contend, and with the East now wide open after devastating Achilles injuries to Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton, their belief is not unfounded.
Bringing in LeBron at this stage could complicate that plan. While James is still a top-tier player and can swing a playoff series, he’s also on what could be his final NBA contract.
His presence would demand a system shift, a media circus, and possibly a year or two of win-now moves that compromise the long-term balance New York has carefully constructed. When he leaves, the Knicks would be forced to chase another superstar just to maintain relevance.
That’s not the position the Knicks want to be in. Right now, they have chemistry, youth, and a sense of continuity. While a potential LeBron move might be revisited later if the season goes sideways or Bronny James becomes a tradeable asset, the message from the front office is clear: the Knicks aren’t interested in chasing ghosts. They believe the future is already here.
