Stein’s Update: Towns, Holiday, Knicks, Davis, and Eason Highlights
Recent discussions among NBA teams have sparked interest regarding potential trades involving several key players, especially Karl-Anthony Towns and Jrue Holiday. The New York Knicks have been at the center of these trade talks.
Knicks and Karl-Anthony Towns Trade Speculation
Steve Popper from Newsday reported that the Knicks had engaged with various teams regarding a deal for Karl-Anthony Towns. However, other sources, including Ian Begley and Sam Amick, have disputed these claims, stating there is no active discussion. According to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post, the Knicks are not currently “shopping” Towns, though the situation could evolve as the trade deadline approaches.
Marc Stein’s insights suggest that while the Knicks’ management attempts to downplay trade talks, rival teams suspect there could be availability for the five-time All-Star under specific conditions. Towns, now 30 years old, has impressive stats this season, averaging 20.5 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists over 42 games. He is under contract until the 2027/28 season, which includes a significant player option valued at $61 million.
Potential Interest in Jrue Holiday
Additionally, Stein mentioned that the Knicks are exploring the possibility of acquiring Jrue Holiday from the Portland Trail Blazers. Team insiders believe that adding Holiday could enhance the Knicks’ attractiveness to potential players like Giannis Antetokounmpo. Holiday’s defensive prowess is highly regarded, and he could complement Jalen Brunson in the Knicks’ backcourt.
Focus on Smaller Deals
Despite speculation around blockbuster trades, sources maintain that the Knicks are more likely to pursue smaller deals. One name mentioned is Guerschon Yabusele, who is currently earning $5.5 million with a player option worth $5.8 million for the 2026/27 season.
Other Trade Rumors
In the broader NBA landscape, trade discussions are heating up as the deadline approaches. Notably:
- Anthony Davis is expected to remain with the Dallas Mavericks this season, despite ongoing trade offers.
- Tari Eason of the Houston Rockets is reportedly off-limits in trade discussions, as he is posting a career-high three-point percentage of 46.6% this season.
The NBA landscape is ever-evolving, and as trade discussions continue to unfold, more updates will likely emerge in the days leading to the deadline.
