The New York Knicks have already added serious depth this offseason, bringing in Jordan Clarkson, Guerschon Yabusele, and veteran contributors like Malcolm Brogdon and Alex Len. On paper, it’s one of the deepest rosters New York has had in years. Yet according to Rohan Brahmbhatt of ClutchPoints, the Knicks may not be finished. One name to watch: Keon Ellis.

Why Keon Ellis Fits the Knicks’ Identity

Ellis, a 24-year-old guard who played last season with the Sacramento Kings, is not a big-name target. But his profile makes sense for the Knicks. In 80 games, Ellis averaged 8.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.5 assists, while shooting 48.9% from the field and 43.3% from three.

Efficiency and Discipline Over Flash

The appeal of Ellis isn’t in gaudy numbers — it’s in how he plays. He doesn’t force bad shots, works within the offense, and spaces the floor with elite efficiency. For a Knicks team with plenty of aggressive scorers, adding a steady, disciplined guard could be the perfect complement.

Defensive Edge the Knicks Value

Beyond his shooting, Ellis is known as a defensive-minded guard, something New York has consistently valued under its current philosophy. His ability to guard multiple positions, bring energy off the bench, and hit threes at a high clip makes him exactly the type of role player the Knicks could look to add before the season tips off.

A Move Still on the Table

Even with an already stacked roster, the Knicks are clearly in win-now mode. If Ellis becomes available at the right price, don’t be surprised if New York makes a move to add yet another piece to its deep and versatile rotation.

The New York Knicks have quietly built one of the deepest rosters in the NBA. With free-agent signings like Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele locked in to play major second-unit roles, and with Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet secured for backcourt depth, the Knicks’ bench is loaded. But that depth could also become a bargaining chip.

Untouchable vs. Trade Candidates

Some players are virtually off-limits. Clarkson and Yabusele are expected to play key roles, while Josh Hart would only be moved in a superstar trade package. That leaves younger players and fringe rotation pieces as the most realistic trade options.

Tyler Kolek and Pacome Dadiet: Assets With Upside

Two names that stand out are Tyler Kolek and Pacome Dadiet. Both have promise and long-term upside, but neither has a clear path to significant minutes on a Knicks roster that’s focused on winning now. Their contracts and youth could make them attractive to teams looking to develop talent.

The McBride Factor

An intriguing wrinkle involves Miles McBride, arguably the Knicks’ top bench contributor last season. With the addition of Brogdon, the guard rotation is suddenly crowded, and McBride’s role may shrink. While it’s unlikely New York parts with him easily, he could still be included in trade talks if salary relief becomes necessary.

What the Knicks Want to Keep

Despite the rumors, one thing seems clear: the Knicks are intent on keeping Brogdon and Shamet to ensure their rotation remains one of the deepest in the league. That means any trade is more likely to involve younger, non-rotation pieces rather than key veterans.

A Move Could Be Coming Soon

With title aspirations front and center, the Knicks appear poised to act. Whether it’s Kolek, Dadiet, or another young piece, a roster move could happen sooner rather than later as New York positions itself for a serious Finals run.

The New York Knicks are looking to make a statement in 2025-26. With Jayson Tatum (Celtics) and Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers) sidelined by Achilles injuries, the Eastern Conference landscape has suddenly shifted. The Knicks, who fell just short in last season’s Eastern Conference Finals against Indiana, may see this as the perfect chance to launch a bold, win-now move.

Why Kawhi Leonard Fits the Bill

Enter Kawhi Leonard — one of the NBA’s most dominant two-way players. Despite ongoing off-court concerns and lingering questions about his future with the Los Angeles Clippers, Leonard’s ability to lock down defensively and deliver in clutch scoring situations could be exactly what the Knicks need to vault past their rivals.

The Proposed Blockbuster Trade

Here’s one scenario being floated:

• New York Knicks Receive: Kawhi Leonard
• Los Angeles Clippers Receive: OG Anunoby, Mitchell Robinson, 2031 first-round pick

This package would give the Clippers a combination of defensive talent, rim protection, and future draft capital, while the Knicks would secure a proven star to pair with their current core.

What This Would Mean for New York

Acquiring Leonard would immediately redefine the Knicks’ championship window. His presence would not only strengthen their wing rotation but also give them the elite closer they’ve been missing in high-stakes playoff moments. The risk, of course, lies in Leonard’s health and potential off-court distractions, but the upside could be transformative.

Can the Knicks Pull It Off?

While nothing is imminent, the Knicks’ front office has shown a willingness to explore aggressive moves in pursuit of a title. If they believe Leonard can stay healthy and focused, this could be the type of blockbuster that finally pushes New York back to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.