According to league sources, the New York Knicks are open to trading Guerschon Yabusele ahead of the February 5 NBA trade deadline. Yabusele signed a two-year contract with the Knicks in free agency, paying him $5.5 million this season with a $5.7 million player option for next season.
The 30-year-old has struggled since joining New York after spending last season with the Philadelphia 76ers. He is shooting less than 31 percent from three-point range and less than 40 percent from the field while averaging less than 10 minutes per game.
Executives from multiple leagues believe New York would have to tie something to Yabusele to make a trade happen. The Knicks’ financial situation prevents them from getting any of that salary slot back.
In addition to Yabusele, the franchise has put out feelers about adding another ballhandler or frontcourt player. New York lacks a traditional veteran point guard behind Jalen Brunson.
Sophomore point guard Tyler Kolek has shown the ability to run an offense and set up teammates. He was having a career week before struggling on Friday and playing solid on Sunday against the Miami Heat.
New York must determine if Kolek’s incremental progress is sustainable and if he can become a legitimate backup point guard. The team’s evaluation of Kolek could impact deadline priorities.
The Knicks could pursue another big man to address depth issues. Mitchell Robinson was dominant on the glass, but New York has placed him on a load management program due to his injury history.
Behind Robinson and Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks lack proven depth. An injury to Robinson would leave New York in a difficult position.
The Knicks typically complete trades well before the deadline. That pattern could change this year due to limited resources for fringe movements.
New York’s decision-makers can wait until February 5 to continue evaluating players like Kolek. The expanded timeline would provide better information on whether to prioritize a ballhandler, a big man or not make any moves at all.
The franchise has traditionally been aggressive in the trade markets, but is facing secondary restrictions this season. The Knicks’ approach will depend on internal evaluations and available trade opportunities before the deadline.
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