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How Jaren Jackson Jr could fit on New York Knicks and the trade that could make it happen

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Jonah Kubicek | Last updated Jun 18, 2025 9:26 PM ET

The New York Knicks, after losing in the Eastern Conference Finals, are expected to be one of the busier teams this offseason, and Jaren Jackson Jr. has emerged as a possible trade candidate.

The New York Knicks lost in the Eastern Conference Finals to the Indiana Pacers, prompting the quick dismissal of head coach Tom Thibodeau, as well as several trade rumors.

The Knicks have been linked to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant, although to balance the salary of an established star, New York would have to give up a critical starter in a possible deal.

As a big-market team, the Knicks are never ruled out of sweepstakes for a star, and their general manager, Leon Rose, was formerly the agent for Jaren Jackson Jr.

After the Memphis Grizzlies traded away Desmond Bane, speculation has emerged suggesting that Memphis is not done making moves, and Jackson Jr. has been linked to the Knicks.

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Adding Jackson Jr. is a ‘dream’ for Knicks

The Knicks, last season, slid four spots in the league’s defensive rating ranking. Adding Jackson Jr. would obviously improve their defense, although it will come at a cost.

In mock trades for Giannis or Durant, the Knicks have been projected to part ways with Karl-Anthony Towns, who is not the defensive-minded big man they want. Jackson Jr. is, although they think a scoring punch with both players could work.

“Sources familiar with the situation tell ClutchPoints that at least one key member of the Knicks’ front office has long been interested in Jackson Jr. as a trade target,” wrote Kris Pursiainen.

“The Knicks’ acquisition of Karl-Anthony Towns last offseason didn’t nullify this interest, either. League sources say that a Jackson Jr. and Karl-Anthony Towns frontcourt would be a ‘dream’ pairing for New York in their starting lineup.”

Both Towns and Jackson Jr. are solid shooters, and having them on the perimeter for Jalen Brunson to kick the ball out to would provide plenty of options. The on-court fit, it seems, would work very well, although there are real concerns that the Knicks won’t be able to match the Grizzlies’ asking price.

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How Jackson Jr. could get to New York

The Grizzlies received four picks and a swap from the Orlando Magic for Bane, who has never made an All-Star Game. The price for Jackson Jr. would likely be higher than that of Bane, especially when, if he is put on the trade market, there would be plenty of suitors.

The Knicks, however, can very easily match Jackson Jr.’s salary, and can get creative with draft picks.

Full Mock Trade Details

Of course, the deal above does not consider a third team being roped in. While a lone first-round pick, and a heavily protected one at that, might not be enough to entice the Grizzlies to trade Jackson Jr., the Knicks could re-route Tyler Kolek, Mitchell Robinson, or even OG Anunoby to acquire more capital to then send to the Grizzlies.

Until Memphis makes its priority clear, expect Jackson Jr. and Ja Morant to stay in town, for now at least.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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