New York Knicks Enter Trade Race for Keon Ellis
The New York Knicks have made a surprising move by joining the competition for Sacramento Kings guard Keon Ellis. As rumors swirl around marquee names like Giannis Antetokounmpo and discussions of a potential reunion with Donte DiVincenzo capture headlines, Ellis emerges as a more affordable option to enhance the Knicks’ roster ahead of the February 5 trade deadline.
Growing Interest from Multiple Teams
Reports indicate that five teams have expressed interest in acquiring Ellis, including the Knicks, Lakers, Magic, Heat, and Trail Blazers. The 25-year-old guard is set to enter unrestricted free agency this summer, making him an appealing target for teams looking to enhance their perimeter defense without dealing with significant salary cap issues. Sacramento is reportedly seeking a protected first-round pick in exchange for Ellis, a price they believe is justified given his performance last season.
In the 2024-25 season, Ellis showcased his shooting ability, hitting 43.3% of his three-point attempts, while also posting impressive defensive metrics. He averaged 4.9 deflections per game, placing him in the 98th percentile among NBA players. This blend of shooting prowess and defensive capability has drawn interest from various franchises, with multiple NBA executives noting that at least half the league has inquired about him.
Appeal Beyond the Court
Ellis’s youth, defensive potential, and cap-friendly salary of $2.3 million make him an attractive acquisition for teams without the desire to trigger apron restrictions. Importantly, any team that trades for him would also retain his Bird rights, opening the door for a potential extension in the summer. However, his inconsistent playing time in Sacramento poses a challenge to his trade value. Under coach Doug Christie, Ellis’s minutes have varied dramatically, ranging from just five to 30 per game. His current averages of 5.3 points on 38.5% shooting reflect a dip from his previous season, where he averaged 8.3 points with better efficiency.
Knicks’ Connection to Ellis
The Knicks’ interest in Ellis is notably influenced by head coach Mike Brown’s previous relationship with him. Brown coached Ellis in Sacramento for three seasons before being dismissed in December 2024. Following his hiring by the Knicks in July, Brown’s familiarity with Ellis could play a critical role in the team’s decision-making process as they look to strengthen their lineup.
As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Ellis and the Knicks’ potential move to secure the talented guard. With several teams in the mix, the situation remains fluid, but the Knicks’ entry into the race certainly adds a compelling layer to the ongoing trade discussions.
