Knicks balancing contention, cap limits and superstar temptation

Fresh off an NBA Cup title, the Knicks are walking a very thin financial line — and Bobby Marks of ESPN suggests that reality could quietly shape everything they do between now and the trade deadline.

New York is hard capped and sitting just $148,358 below the second apron, a number so tight the Knicks can’t even sign a 15th player until April 2. That has led to internal conversations about whether the team needs to create a bit more breathing room, even if it means exploring the market for smaller contracts.

Marks points to Pacome Dadiet and Guerschon Yabusele as names to watch. Dadiet is guaranteed through next season, while Yabusele’s role has all but vanished. After averaging 27.1 minutes per game with Philadelphia last season, Yabusele is down to 9.8 minutes in New York.

But that’s the minor discussion.

The much bigger one is obvious. If Giannis Antetokounmpo were ever made available, should the Knicks go all-in?

Marks notes that any pursuit of the two-time MVP would come at a steep cost, especially since New York’s draft assets are limited. The Knicks’ only tradable first-rounder is a 2026 pick from Washington that’s top-eight protected and could eventually convert into second-rounders if it doesn’t convey.

New York does have future pick swaps and a couple of expiring contracts — including Mitchell Robinson’s $12.9 million deal — but this isn’t a team overflowing with ammo.

Basically, the Knicks are competitive, capped out and watching closely. If a superstar door opens, the question won’t be interest. It’ll be price.