Knicks’ trade rumors reveal a massive adjustment for next season

The New York Knicks are signaling a major shift from the Tom Thibodeau era by planning to expand their rotation to regularly include 10 or more players. To achieve this, they intend to sign veterans Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet, even if it means sacrificing younger talent. Currently, the team only has space under the second apron to add one veteran minimum contract, so they are exploring trade options to create an additional roster spot.

Tyler Kolek is the most likely player to be traded, though Pacome Dadiet or Deuce McBride could also be moved. The decision to prioritize two veterans who haven't secured guaranteed contracts elsewhere is questionable, but the Knicks' commitment to deepening their rotation is clear. Next season's rotation already includes nine confirmed players: Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, Josh Hart, Guerschon Yabusele, Jordan Clarkson, and possibly McBride if he isn't traded. Adding Brogdon and Shamet would bring the total to 10 or 11 players.

Retaining McBride over Dadiet or Kolek would further emphasize this depth strategy, as his defensive and spacing skills are highly valued. This approach marks a significant departure from Thibodeau's reliance on a core of six to seven players and even differs from head coach Mike Brown's previous top-heavy rotations in Sacramento. While expanding the rotation is generally viewed positively, the Knicks must consider the opportunity cost of losing young prospects like Dadiet and Kolek, which could impact player development and cost-controlled contracts.

The success of this strategy hinges on Brogdon and Shamet proving valuable; if they end up on the rotation fringe, it will draw scrutiny to the Knicks' decision-making. For now, the team's focus is squarely on building a deeper rotation under Brown than was ever seen during the Thibodeau era.