Latest Knicks Trade Rumors Surrounding NY's 'Biggest' Signing from NBA Free Agency

The New York Knicks might be willing to deal veteran center Guerschon Yabusele before the Feb. 5 trade deadline, according to The Athletic's James L. Edwards III.

Edwards identified the 30-year-old as New York's "biggest free-agency signing last offseason," which says more about the team's quiet summer. Yabusele and Jordan Clarkson were the only free agents to arrive.

The Frenchman made his return to the NBA in 2024 on the heels of a strong showing in the Summer Olympics. He averaged 11 points and 5.6 rebounds while shooting 38 percent on three-pointers in 70 appearances for the Philadelphia 76ers.

Yabusele hasn't duplicated that production in New York. He is playing just 9.6 minutes per night, which has caused his scoring average to fall to three points per contest. He's shooting just 39.4 percent overall as well.

"Multiple league executives believe the Knicks would have to attach something to Yabusele in order to have a chance to move him before the deadline," Edwards reported. "Other than what New York does or doesn't do with Yabusele, the franchise has long put out feelers about adding another ballhandler and/or frontcourt player, per league sources."

That's a pretty harsh reflection on Yabusele's perceived value when he's signed to a modest two-year, $11.3 million contract.

Still, Edwards made the point that the Knicks "can't afford to get nothing out of that salary slot." They have a payroll of $210.1 million and are only $148,358 away from the second apron of the luxury tax.

Team president Leon Rose and general manager Gersson Rosas won't be able to spin Yabusele into a major asset, but perhaps they can flip him for a role player who contributes in a more meaningful way.