Knicks Keep Tabs on Backup Guard Options as Mid-Season Push for Giannis Appears Unlikely
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New York — The New York Knicks entered the summer with what league insiders described as a “legitimate” trade proposal for Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo, according to SNY’s Ian Begley. While the front office tested those waters in the offseason, Begley reports that a blockbuster move during the current campaign is viewed as improbable unless Antetokounmpo himself demands a move to Madison Square Garden—and even then, Milwaukee would not be obligated to cooperate.
Front office comfortable with current roster
One executive told Begley the Knicks are “content” with their roster construction and believe the Eastern Conference remains open enough for a deep run without a major shake-up. New York sits positioned with draft capital and young players but appears reluctant to surrender significant assets mid-season.
Chris Paul speculation cools
The Los Angeles Clippers announced Wednesday they are parting ways with veteran guard Chris Paul, though league rules prevent any trade until December 15 and a waiver scenario is considered unlikely. Despite earlier chatter linking Paul to New York as a backup playmaking option, Begley now categorizes a deal for the 40-year-old floor general as “highly unlikely.”
Mixed reactions to a potential Paul deal
Columnists Kristian Winfield (New York Daily News) and Mike Vaccaro (New York Post) weighed the pros and cons of bringing Paul to Manhattan. Vaccaro argues Paul would represent an upgrade over second-year guard Tyler Kolek and might be obtainable for a modest return. Winfield counters that Paul’s age, declining numbers, and defensive regression could outweigh the benefits, though he concedes the Knicks still need a stabilizing presence behind starting point guard Jalen Brunson.
Backup point guard remains a priority
Kolek has logged the majority of backup minutes recently, but the club has struggled during his runs, Stefan Bondy of the New York Post notes. Those lapses have nudged team executives to continue surveying the market for veteran help.
Bondy lists nine guards believed to be available ahead of the February deadline, a group that includes Paul, Jose Alvarado (New Orleans Pelicans), Tre Jones (Chicago Bulls), and Tyus Jones (Orlando Magic). Whether New York converts its asset trove into immediate reinforcement remains unanswered.
The Knicks retain multiple future first-round picks and several young players, leaving decision-makers to weigh short-term needs against long-term flexibility as the trade window approaches.
Source: Hoops Wire
