TITLE: Knicks Explore Yabusele Trade, Evaluate Roster Moves as Skid Continues
SLUG: knicks-explore-yabusele-trade-evaluate-roster-moves
CONTENT:
The New York Knicks are actively discussing deals involving forward Guerschon Yabusele with several clubs, according to league sources cited by The New York Post. The 27-year-old, signed last summer, has struggled to fit in New York’s rotation and is averaging 2.9 points and 2.2 rebounds while shooting .394 from the field and .317 from three.
Yabusele carries a $5.5 million cap hit for 2025-26 and holds a $5.8 million player option for 2026-27, factors that could complicate any trade. San Antonio continues to be mentioned as a potential destination because of his connection with longtime French national-team frontcourt partner Victor Wembanyama.
Brown Tweaks Game Plan
Head coach Mike Brown, aiming to halt a four-game slide, said Tuesday that the staff has made “significant changes on both sides of the ball” ahead of Wednesday’s meeting with the Nets. “We didn’t overhaul anything, but we’ve made some changes,” Brown told reporters, adding that he started the reevaluation process by “looking in the mirror” himself.
Towns Talk Remains Cautious
Newsday reported earlier this week that New York held preliminary conversations about Karl-Anthony Towns, but the Knicks are not inclined to move the All-Star center at a discount. A more modest deadline move—potentially involving Yabusele or rookie wing Pacome Dadiet—appears more realistic, per the outlet.
Antetokounmpo Scenario Still Remote
The Athletic examined whether the Knicks’ recent slump could reopen the door to a blockbuster bid for Giannis Antetokounmpo. Writer Eric Nehm views an in-season trade for the two-time MVP as highly improbable, and both he and colleague James L. Edwards III agree New York would struggle to assemble a package Milwaukee would seriously consider.
Brown–Fernandez Friendship
ESPN detailed the long-standing relationship between Brown and Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez, who met in 2009 when Brown, then coaching Cleveland, secured an internship for Fernandez and had him train his son Elijah. The two remain close as they prepare to face each other on Wednesday night.
The Knicks enter the crosstown matchup seeking their first win in five games while continuing to weigh roster adjustments ahead of the trade deadline.
Source: Hoops Rumors
