Knicks' Second-Year Guard Labeled Most Likely Trade Candidate for Upcoming Season

Because of this, New York focused on upgrading their second unit this summer by signing Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele in free agency.

The Knicks also have another roster spot open that they are expected to use to sign another veteran player to upgrade their depth to chase a title this season.

While the Knicks have been busy making additions to their roster this offseason, they may also be open to trading some of their players at some point before the trade deadline in February who may has a decreased role.

Tyler Kolek named potential trade candidate for Knicks

Because of this, Sports Illustrated’s Jeremy Brener recently named Tyler Kolek as a potential Knicks’ trade candidate this season.

“Kolek is in the same boat as Dadiet, but he's a few years older because he came through the American college route to get to the NBA. Kolek played in 41 games last season for the Knicks, showcasing some skills as a ball-handler, but New York still has a little doubt in giving him a considerable amount of minutes,” Brener wrote. “The Knicks could sign a veteran point guard in free agency to round out their roster. If they do, it only increases the chances of Kolek being traded to a team that could give him more minutes than the Knicks.”

Of course, Kolek was the 34th pick in the 2024 draft by the Portland Trail Blazers before he was traded to the Knicks.

In his rookie campaign last season, the 24-year-old guard averaged 2.0 points and 1.7 assists per game while shooting 32.9% from the field and 29.8% from three over 41 games.

Kolek only played 7.2 minutes per game last season and with the Knicks’ additions to their roster this offseason, his role entering the new season could be diminished.

This could especially be the case if New York elects to use their final roster spot to add another guard to their roster which would be another player Kolek would have to compete with for minutes.

Because of this, the Knicks could look to move Kolek at some point this season to a team where he could receive more minutes, especially if New York is able to acquire another key player to help them on their chase for a championship.