Knicks Locked in Three-Team Battle for $19 Million 3-and-D Wing: Report

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Key Highlights

  • New York Knicks in a three-team battle for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
  • Saddiq Bey gaining trade interest due to strong recent performance.
  • Guerschon Yabusele’s contract is a focus for the Knicks’ trade plans.

The Knicks’ Dilemma: Antetokounmpo or Bey?

New York Knicks are in an intriguing three-team battle to land Giannis Antetokounmpo, but the reality is that the path forward appears narrow. The Bucks reportedly seek a “blue-chip young talent” and substantial draft picks for their 10-time All-Star, making any move for Antetokounmpo challenging without a third party involved.

For now, the Knicks are focusing on capitalizing on their recent form. They’ve surged to second in the Eastern Conference with a six-game winning streak, improving their record to 31-18. The belief is that the Bucks are not rushing this decision and may keep Antetokounmpo for another season.

The Bey Option

While Antetokounmpo remains the headline-grabbing possibility, the Knicks are also weighing smaller strategic moves like a potential trade for New Orleans Pelicans wing Saddiq Bey. According to NBA reporter Evan Sidery, “The Knicks, Lakers and Suns are among the teams to recently inquire with the Pelicans on Saddiq Bey.” Bey is averaging 21.2 points, 6 rebounds and 2.6 assists while shooting 44.4% from beyond the arc over his recent hot stretch.

Through 43 games, Bey has quietly put together an impressive season in New Orleans after recovering from an ACL tear. His contributions include 16.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.0 steal per game, shooting 44.6% from the field and 34.1% from three-point range.

Financial Considerations

The Knicks are motivated to move off Guerschon Yabusele’s contract before his player option becomes active in 2026-27, making the approaching deadline a critical pressure point. HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto has reported that Pelicans center Yves Missi is drawing significant interest leaguewide, with New York firmly among the list of suitors.

Ultimately, while Antetokounmpo remains the headline-grabbing possibility, it’s the Knicks’ ability to execute smaller, strategic moves like a potential Bey deal that may ultimately shape how far this season can go.

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