Overall, the New York Knicks are currently in a favorable position. They have had their best start to a season in a long time, ranking third in the Eastern Conference with a record of 25-14 and maintaining one of the best net ratings in basketball despite a slow start in 2025. However, it seems like there is a ceiling for this team this season unless they make adjustments to their top-heavy roster.
Unfortunately, the Knicks face financial constraints and are close to the luxury tax threshold. Mitchell Robinson, who is earning $14.3 million this season and $12.9 million next season, has yet to play due to injury and may not be available until after the trade deadline on Feb. 6. It’s uncertain if a team would take on a player with foot problems like Robinson without him playing this season. The Knicks might have to consider trading him, but it’s a challenging situation.
The best option for the Knicks to enhance their roster may be to make small changes around the edges by trading smaller contracts and redundant pieces. They could use more depth at the wing position, as well as an upgrade in the frontcourt.
In this article, we will explore potential trade targets for the Knicks who have smaller contracts and could fit well with the current roster. The focus is on the difficulties New York may face in adjusting their roster without sacrificing any starters, Miles McBride, or the injured Robinson.
(Please note: The trade scenarios discussed will not involve the injured Mitchell Robinson. A separate discussion on Robinson will be featured next week.)
Scenario No. 1
Knicks receive: Simone Fontecchio
Pistons receive: Bruce Brown and Cameron Payne
Raptors receive: Precious Achiuwa and three future second-round picks (one from New York and two from Detroit)
Why would the Knicks do this?
Fontecchio is under contract until the end of next season and could provide what the Knicks need on the bench, despite his struggles in Detroit this season.
Last season, Fontecchio showed his shooting ability and defensive skills, even though his performance has declined this year due to his foot surgery. If Fontecchio can return to form, he would be a valuable addition to the Knicks’ roster. Trading Payne would be difficult as he has been impactful, but the Knicks may need to make this move to accommodate Fontecchio’s salary and improve the team.
The ripple effect of this trade would require the Knicks to rely more on rookie Tyler Kolek in the backcourt and adjust their frontcourt rotation unless Robinson returns to full health soon.
Why would the Pistons and Raptors do this?
Detroit is aiming for a playoff spot and could benefit from adding Brown and Payne to their roster. The Pistons are improving defensively and could use their skills on both ends of the court. The Raptors would make this deal to acquire additional draft picks as they continue their rebuilding process.
Scenario No. 2
Knicks receive: Nick Richards
Hornets receive: Precious Achiuwa and two future second-round picks from New York
Why would the Knicks do this?
Richards would provide the size and physicality that the Knicks lack in the absence of Robinson. He is a player that Thibodeau would appreciate for his aggressiveness and work ethic. Achiuwa’s salary would facilitate this trade, although the Knicks may face challenges when Robinson returns.
Why would the Hornets do this?
Charlotte is rebuilding and could benefit from acquiring draft picks for their backup center. Achiuwa’s expiring contract makes this trade appealing for the Hornets, who see Mark Williams as their future center.
Scenario No. 3
Knicks receive: Alec Burks
Heat receive: Jericho Sims and a future second-round pick
Why would the Knicks do this?
This trade would bring Burks back to the Knicks to provide additional scoring and guard depth. It would alter the team’s roster structure and reunite Burks with the organization.
Why would the Heat do this?
While the Heat may not be inclined to make this trade, Burks could offer offensive firepower off the bench. Adding a second-round pick could incentivize Miami to consider the deal.
(Top photo of Alec Burks: Melissa Majchrzak / NBAE via Getty Images)
