Knicks Trade Rumors: NYK 'Want to Hold Down the Fort' Ahead of 2021 NBA Deadline

The 18-17 New York Knicks are suddenly contenders in the Eastern Conference, but they still might not be active in the trade market ahead of the March 25 deadline.

"They want to hold down the fort with what they have for now," Marc Berman of the New York Post reported.

Berman did note the Knicks are "analyzing" a potential trade for Andre Drummond, although there doesn't appear to be much urgency to swing a huge deal.

The squad's biggest issue at the moment is frontcourt depth with Mitchell Robinson out with a broken hand and Taj Gibson dealing with an ankle injury. Nerlens Noel has since eased some concerns, averaging 8.0 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game across his last eight starts while the team has gone 6-2. Recently named All-Star Julius Randle can also spend time at center.

Head coach Tom Thibodeau said Sunday his team doesn't need any new additions.

"We have more than enough on the roster, so we'll figure out a way," Thibodeau told reporters. "We have guys that can play multiple positions, and then we're going to have to take care of the rebounding, gang rebound. Everyone has to contribute in that area."

After seven years without a playoff berth, the Knicks are currently fourth in the East, ahead of the Miami Heat, Boston Celtics and Toronto Raptors.

Keeping the current squad intact and potentially adding small pieces from the G League or free agency could be enough for New York to stay competitive.