The Knicks could look to make a big swing ahead of next week’s trade deadline, and per NBA insider Marc Stein, that could include a former Celtics champion. Stein reported the Knicks have “explored pathways” to try and acquire the two-time NBA champion in Jrue Holiday.
The Knicks have endured an up-and-down season despite coming into the year with real title expectations. Holiday would be a massive deal if they went for it, and while he’s 35, he’s shown that he’s a winning player who steps up during the playoffs.
Stein pointed to two reasons why the Knicks would be interested in acquiring Holiday. First, with the Bucks sliding down the East standings, Milwaukee star Giannis Antetokounmpo could view New York as an “even more attractive destination” with Holiday. The two teamed up to win the 2021 NBA championship with the Bucks.
Second, Stein reported the Knicks view a backcourt duo of Holiday and All-Star Jalen Brunson favorably. Considering Brunson’s defensive limitations, having a stellar defender like Holiday makes a lot of sense. That becomes heightened in the playoffs when the pace goes down and the physicality goes up.
Trading for Holiday is another barrier, though, considering his contract situation. Holiday makes a $32.4 million salary this season. He has two years and $72 million on his deal after this season (the final year being a player option). That’s a lot of money when it comes to a trade, plus future money down the line.
The Knicks have been rumored to be looking for a trade partner for former C’s first-round pick Guerschon Yabusele. That would be mostly a minor move when it comes to upgrading the roster. However, Holiday would be pushing their chips further all-in with this current core. The trade deadline is set for Feb. 5.