Knicks Weigh Potential Blockbuster Path if Giannis Antetokounmpo Hits Trade Market

The New York Knicks have carved out one of the league’s strongest early-season résumés. With their recent victory over the Orlando Magic, New York improved to 16–7, positioning itself firmly near the top of an Eastern Conference that has thinned behind the contenders. Their numbers support the record: a top-four point differential and a near-flawless 13–1 mark at Madison Square Garden underline how well this group has performed.

Yet for all the optimism around their start, the Knicks’ long-term ambitions hinge on achieving what has eluded them since 1973 — a championship. In a league defined by superstar movement, the path to contention can change overnight. When elite talent becomes available, the consequences of standing still can be just as significant as the cost of pursuing a deal.

That dynamic frames the discussion surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo. If the Milwaukee Bucks were ever to consider parting with their two-time MVP, his availability would shift the entire balance of the league. For New York, such a scenario would demand serious consideration, not only to improve their roster but to prevent a rival from gaining a transformational piece.

Even in a strong season, the Knicks know that staying competitive requires bold thinking. Antetokounmpo’s potential presence on the market would be the very definition of a “must explore” opportunity.

1. Weighing the Cost of a Superstar

Any serious pursuit of Antetokounmpo would likely begin with Karl-Anthony Towns, who would represent the most logical centerpiece of an outgoing package. Towns missing the recent game against Orlando with a calf strain — the same injury Antetokounmpo is managing — appears coincidental, but his inclusion in a trade structure is almost unavoidable if New York aims to match salary and value. However, Towns alone would not satisfy Milwaukee’s needs. The Bucks, should they consider trading their franchise player, would likely seek a multi-team framework that brings back both talent and future assets. New York would need to present players with strong league-wide value, creating paths for Milwaukee to retool quickly. Because Mikal Bridges cannot be traded until late January due to his extension, OG Anunoby becomes the most plausible secondary piece. His age, defensive versatility, and high desirability across the league make him a valuable asset for any rebuilding effort. Still, the Knicks would prefer to keep him as part of their core, which complicates the calculus. Salary-matching would also be a challenge. Towns and Anunoby combine for roughly $92.5 million, while Antetokounmpo’s salary is about $54 million. Additional contracts would likely need to be involved — possibly Myles Turner, Kyle Kuzma, or Bobby Portis — and New York would almost certainly be required to include draft picks or a young prospect such as Pacome Dadiet.

2. How a Giannis Deal Would Reshape New York

Any trade of this magnitude would dramatically alter the Knicks’ rotation. While Towns and Anunoby have become central pillars of the current roster, Antetokounmpo’s arrival would raise the team’s ceiling in ways few players can. His defensive range, rim pressure, and overall versatility far exceed what New York receives from Towns, even if spacing challenges emerge. A core of Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Antetokounmpo would frame one of the league’s premier big threes. The remaining group — including Mitchell Robinson, Miles McBride, and Josh Hart — could still provide depth, toughness, and defensive identity, though lineup adjustments would be necessary to maximize offensive flow. The broader league context also matters. With the Oklahoma City Thunder emerging as a dominant force and holding an unmatched collection of draft assets, the Knicks may feel increasingly pressured to make an aggressive swing. Standing pat risks falling behind a rising powerhouse. Adding Antetokounmpo would give New York two top-10 players and a roster strong enough to challenge any opponent. It would also enhance the franchise’s attractiveness to future free agents and buy-out candidates, particularly heading into the pivotal 2026 offseason.

3. The Risks — and the Opportunity

A deal of this magnitude brings significant short-term hurdles. Integrating Antetokounmpo would require time and patience, particularly as he continues to recover from a calf injury — an ailment that has been linked in recent seasons to higher Achilles risk across the league. The Knicks’ offense would need to be reshaped, and roles would shift immediately. Yet the potential upside is enormous. Antetokounmpo’s production — nearly 29 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists per game — has remained remarkably consistent year over year. The Knicks have built a formidable roster through depth, balance, and development, but injuries and limitations have capped their ceiling. A player of his caliber changes that instantly. This type of opportunity rarely presents itself. While the cost will be steep, the reward could be transformative, elevating New York into true title contention for the first time in decades. The franchise is close enough to believe the risk is worth evaluating. At its core, the calculus is simple: if a generational superstar in his prime becomes available, a franchise with championship aspirations cannot afford to look away.