The New York Knicks apparently aren’t satisfied with their 20-8 record under new head coach Mike Brown, NBA Cup victory, and current No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference. According to new reports (including one from The Athletic’s James L. Edwards III), the Knicks are looking to make roster moves.
New York’s trade chip of choice? Former Boston Celtics forward Guerschon Yabusele, whom the Knicks signed to a two-year, $11.7 million deal in July.
As Sam Amico of Hoops Wire accurately pointed out, though, Yabusele in New York hasn’t been a good fit.
“Yabusele was New York’s top free-agent addition last summer,” Amico wrote on Monday. “So far, it hasn’t worked. The 30-year-old is averaging three points and 2.2 rebounds in limited minutes, with shooting numbers that haven’t translated after his strong season in Philadelphia following five years overseas.”
“He’s making $5.5 million this season and holds a $5.7 million player option for 2026–27,” Amico continued. “That contract matters. Multiple executives told Edwards the Knicks may need to attach assets just to move it. New York has been calling around for help in two areas: another ballhandler and another big.”
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Yabusele entered the NBA as the 16th overall pick by the Celtics in the 2016 draft. During his initial stint from 2017 to 2019, he appeared in 74 games for Boston, averaging around 2.3 points and 1.4 rebounds in limited minutes off the bench. After being waived, he pursued opportunities abroad before making a notable comeback.
His return came in August 2024, signing a one-year deal with the 76ers following a standout performance at the Paris Olympics. In the 2024-25 season, Yabusele thrived, playing 70 games with averages of 11.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.1 assists across 27.1 minutes per contest.
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Featured image via Vincent Carchietta/Imagn Images
