Their current 4th seed standing (46-27) is proof that they belong in the championship conversation, but simply making noise isn’t the goal. The expectation is to reach at least the Eastern Conference Finals, with the ultimate ambition of bringing a title back to New York for the first time in over 50 years.
But what if they fall short? The front office has been aggressive in building this team, and there’s no reason to stop now. If the Knicks get knocked out before the NBA Finals, Leon Rose and company could be looking to upgrade in key areas because finding the missing piece to push them over the top will be necessary.
With a mix of tradable contracts and future draft capital, they have the flexibility to make a splash. Here are seven potential targets that could take New York from contender to champion.
1. Walker Kessler
Trade Idea Details
New York Knicks Receive: Walker Kessler
Utah Jazz Receive: Miles McBride, 2026 First-Round Pick (NYK), 2031 Second-Round Pick (NYK)
The Knicks’ defense has been formidable this season, but adding a shot-blocking specialist like Walker Kessler could elevate it to elite status. Standing at 7 feet tall, Kessler has been a defensive anchor for the Utah Jazz, averaging 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game with an impressive 66.7% field goal percentage.
His ability to protect the rim and control the boards would provide the Knicks with a reliable presence in the paint, complementing their perimeter defense. Offensively, Kessler’s efficiency is noteworthy, and his contract is very team-friendly ($4,878,938 next season with a $7,064,703 qualifying offer the season after).
In third place in terms of field goal percentage around the NBA, he excels in finishing around the rim and could serve as a valuable pick-and-roll partner for Jalen Brunson. Acquiring Kessler would likely require parting with assets like Miles McBride and future draft picks, but his potential impact on both ends makes him a compelling target for New York.
2. Cam Thomas
Trade Idea Details
New York Knicks Receive: Cam Thomas (Sign-and-Trade)
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Josh Hart, Miles McBride, 2026 First-Round Pick (NYK)
Cam Thomas has emerged as a prolific scorer for the Brooklyn Nets, averaging a career-high 24.0 points per game this season. His ability to create his own shot and score in bunches would provide the Knicks with a dynamic offensive weapon off the bench or as a starter alongside Brunson.
However, Thomas’s season was cut short due to a left hamstring strain sustained in mid-March, sidelining him for the remainder of the campaign. Despite this setback, his scoring prowess and youth make him an intriguing target.
A sign-and-trade involving Josh Hart, Miles McBride, and a future first-round pick could entice the Nets, though the Knicks would need to weigh the risks associated with his recent injury. Thomas has a $5,993,172 qualifying offer for next season but if the Knicks want him, they will sign him for at least $20 million per season.
3. Cameron Johnson
Trade Idea Details
New York Knicks Receive: Cameron Johnson
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Josh Hart, 2031 First-Round Pick (NYK)
Cameron Johnson’s sharpshooting and versatility have made him a valuable asset for the Brooklyn Nets this season as he is posting a career-high 18.8 points per game on 39.2% from three. His ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting would complement the Knicks’ offense, providing much-needed spacing for Brunson and Towns to operate.
Defensively, Johnson offers size and agility, capable of guarding multiple positions. Acquiring him would likely involve sending Josh Hart and a future first-round pick to Brooklyn.
While Hart’s hustle and defense are commendable, Johnson’s offensive skill set and potential to elevate the Knicks’ perimeter game make this trade worth considering. Thomas’ contract status is that he will earn $20,543,478 and $22,500,000 over the next two seasons.
4. Robert Williams III
Trade Idea Details
New York Knicks Receive: Robert Williams III
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Mitchell Robinson, 2026 First-Round Pick (NYK), 2031 Second-Round Pick (NYK)
Under contract for $13,285,713 next season, Robert Williams III can be a defensive stalwart for the right team, but he isn’t the long-term answer for the Portland Trail Blazers. His shot-blocking ability and athleticism can make him a formidable presence in the paint when he is healthy.
Offensively, Williams is efficient around the rim and excels in pick-and-roll situations. In only 20 games played this season due to injuries, the big man posted 5.8 points and 5.9 rebounds per game on 64.1% from the field.
Trading for Williams would likely require parting with Mitchell Robinson and future draft assets. While Robinson has been a key contributor, Williams’s defensive impact and potential for growth could provide the Knicks with an upgrade at the center position, bolstering their interior defense and rebounding.
5. Jerami Grant
Trade Idea Details
New York Knicks Receive: Jerami Grant
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Mikal Bridges, Mitchell Robinson
Jerami Grant’s versatility and scoring ability have been highlights in his tenure with the Portland Trail Blazers. However, his performance this season has shown inconsistencies, with averages lower than in previous years.
Despite this, Grant’s ability to play multiple positions and contribute on both ends remains valuable for any title-contending team. Although he is only posting 14.4 points and 3.5 rebounds per game this season, he is under contract for $32,000,001, $34,206,898, and $36,413,790 (player option) over the next three seasons.
Acquiring Grant would likely necessitate trading Mikal Bridges and Mitchell Robinson. While this is a significant price, Grant’s experience and skill set could provide the Knicks with a versatile forward who could be an immediate replacement if Bridges doesn’t perform as expected in the postseason.
6. Isaiah Stewart
Trade Idea Details
New York Knicks Receive: Isaiah Stewart
Detroit Pistons Receive: Mitchell Robinson, Miles McBride
Isaiah Stewart has been a solid contributor for the Detroit Pistons, averaging 6.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game this season. His toughness and defensive mindset align with the Knicks’ culture, providing depth in the frontcourt.
However, Stewart has faced disciplinary issues, including a recent suspension and fine for accumulating flagrant fouls. Trading for Stewart would involve sending Mitchell Robinson and Miles McBride to Detroit. The Knicks would need to assess whether Stewart’s potential upside outweighs the concerns regarding his on-court conduct.
7. Jonas Valanciunas
Trade Idea Details
New York Knicks Receive: Jonas Valanciunas
Sacramento Kings Receive: Mitchell Robinson, 2031 First-Round Pick (NYK)
Jonas Valanciunas has been a reliable center, averaging 10.8 points and 8.0 rebounds per game this season. His size and experience would add depth to the Knicks’ frontcourt, providing a veteran presence alongside their younger players.
Recently traded to the Sacramento Kings, Valanciunas’ availability may be limited. Acquiring him would likely require sending Mitchell Robinson and a future first-round pick to Sacramento, which isn’t the highest price.
The Knicks would need to consider whether Valanciunas’ skill set and experience align with their long-term goals and current roster composition because he will be 33 years old soon. However, his presence on the block would make Karl-Anthony Towns more effective.
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