As the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 5, rumors swirl around New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns, with rival teams believing he could be available despite the Knicks' insistence otherwise. The Knicks have explored acquiring Portland Trail Blazers guard Jrue Holiday to bolster their backcourt and potentially attract Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. While a major move seems unlikely before the deadline, the chatter highlights New York's defensive struggles and Towns' recent shooting slump.
The New York Knicks find themselves at a crossroads with just over a week until the February 5 trade deadline, as reports indicate a 'persistent belief' among rival teams that Karl-Anthony Towns is available for trade, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line. Acquired from the Minnesota Timberwolves in September 2024, Towns has averaged 20.5 points per game this season but has shot just 36.4% from three-point range, a drop from his earlier efficiency. Knicks officials have downplayed these notions, with sources from SNY's Ian Begley and The Athletic's Sam Amick confirming no active discussions about moving him this season. Owner James Dolan recently expressed confidence in the group's championship potential, emphasizing positive locker room vibes despite a recent swoon.
Defensive concerns underpin the rumors. Lineups featuring Towns and Jalen Brunson rank in the 23rd percentile for defensive efficiency, per Cleaning the Glass data, with Brunson seen as a bigger liability on that end. The Knicks view Towns' shooting as a tradeoff for average defense, but his inconsistencies have fueled speculation. Potential landing spots include the Portland Trail Blazers, where he could pair with Donovan Clingan; the Chicago Bulls, seeking a long-term center; and the New Orleans Pelicans, possibly in a three-team deal involving Herb Jones.
Separately, the Knicks have inquired about Jrue Holiday from Portland, seeing his championship experience and defense as a complement to Brunson and an enticement for Antetokounmpo, who is sidelined with a calf injury expected to sideline him 4-6 weeks. Holiday, a two-time champion with Milwaukee and Boston, earns $32.4 million this season. However, Portland's asking price—likely young players and picks—may prove too steep, and a full season evaluation seems more probable for New York before major changes.