Knicks Explore Trade Options as Deadline Nears, Eye Spurs and Pelicans Targets

The New York Knicks are intensifying their activity on the trade market as the NBA’s Feb. 5 deadline draws closer, engaging in discussions that could reshape their roster for a postseason push. League sources indicate that French forward Guerschon Yabusele has become a central figure in those talks, with New York exploring ways to parlay his contract into more immediate on-court impact.

Operating under the limitations of the league’s second-apron hard cap, the Knicks face a narrow margin for maneuvering. They cannot absorb more salary than they send out in any deal, forcing the front office to be precise in structuring potential trades. Alongside Yabusele, New York has considered including minimum-salary guard Pacome Dadiet to expand its options.

Together, Yabusele and Dadiet represent roughly $8.3 million in outgoing salary, giving the Knicks modest financial flexibility to target one or two rotation-level players. The team already holds an open roster spot, though a two-for-one trade would require an additional signing to remain compliant with roster rules.

For a franchise that believes it can contend this season, every move carries heightened significance. The coming days will test whether New York can thread the needle between fiscal reality and competitive ambition.

1. Spurs Dialogue and the Sochan Question

Among the Knicks’ recent conversations are discussions with the San Antonio Spurs, where interest has centered on forward Jeremy Sochan. The 2022 ninth overall pick is in the final year of his rookie contract and set to become a restricted free agent this summer, making him a potentially attractive acquisition for a team seeking defensive versatility. Sochan’s ability to guard multiple positions and slash offensively aligns with the Knicks’ physical style of play. However, his diminished role in San Antonio’s rotation has complicated his trade value, even as New York has inquired about his availability. Despite that reduced role, internal sentiment within the Spurs organization remains protective of Sochan. Sources say there has been pushback against moving him, and San Antonio has not signaled a firm willingness to part with the young forward before the deadline. Complicating matters further, Yabusele is no longer viewed as a top target for the Spurs. Although he shares a bond with Victor Wembanyama from their time with the French national team, San Antonio is reportedly surveying broader market options, cooling talks with New York late last week.

2. Pelicans Talks and Backcourt Needs

Beyond San Antonio, the Knicks have engaged in direct dialogue with the New Orleans Pelicans, who have fielded calls from contenders across the league. While New Orleans has drawn heavy interest in wings Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones, New York’s focus has reportedly narrowed to two players: Jose Alvarado and Yves Missi. The Knicks’ interest in Alvarado predates the holidays, and New Orleans is said to be open to moving the defensive-minded guard. Several other teams, including Houston, Detroit, and Minnesota, have also inquired, underscoring Alvarado’s appeal as a reliable reserve playmaker. For New York, Alvarado would address a clear need behind All-Star guard Jalen Brunson, providing steadier secondary ball-handling and perimeter defense. His skill set fits the Knicks’ emphasis on toughness and effort. Missi, meanwhile, has become a focal point of trade chatter after losing minutes to rookie Derik Queen. Sources say the 21-year-old center and his camp are frustrated with the diminished role, and league interest has surged as a result.

3. Market Dynamics and Yabusele’s Future

The Pelicans’ broader strategy appears rooted in asset recovery, particularly recouping a 2026 draft pick after dealing their own first-rounder to move up for Queen. New Orleans has also gauged interest in Dejounte Murray and Jordan Poole, though both contracts present challenges for teams seeking value. Elsewhere on the market, the Knicks have joined several teams in expressing interest in Dallas wing Naji Marshall. With wing talent scarce and demand rising, league personnel believe Marshall could command a significant return, potentially even a first-round pick. All of these conversations hinge on Yabusele’s contract and diminishing role in New York. Signed last offseason to a two-year, nearly $12 million deal with a player option for 2026–27, Yabusele has struggled to secure consistent minutes under new head coach Mike Brown. In 39 games, he has averaged just 2.8 points and 2.1 rebounds in limited action, failing to carve out a spot in the nightly rotation. With the deadline looming, the Knicks appear increasingly motivated to convert his roster spot into a more impactful contributor.