The New York Knicks have been connected to Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo dating back to last offseason, but a blockbuster move for a player of that caliber appears unlikely in the short term.
If New York decides to act before the trade deadline, the focus is expected to be on a more affordable frontcourt option rather than a headline-grabbing superstar.
The Knicks have reportedly monitored veteran center Goga Bitadze from the Orlando Magic as well as second-year big man Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans.
Either player would come at a significantly lower price than Antetokounmpo, both in terms of trade compensation and salary matching.
With New York operating right up against the second-apron hard cap, taking on additional money is essentially off the table.
Bitadze is earning $8.3 million this season and is owed $7.6 million next year, and his role with Orlando has fluctuated throughout the year. In limited action, he has posted averages of 5.9 points and 5.2 rebounds while playing 16.4 minutes per game.
Missi, meanwhile, is on a much cheaper rookie-scale contract, making $3.3 million this season. His deal includes two more years, with a $3.5 million salary in 2026-27 and a $5.6 million team option for 2027-28.
Despite his relative inexperience, Missi has contributed 5.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game in 19 minutes per night, making him an intriguing low-cost developmental option for New York.
Knicks Have Shown Interest In Goga Bitadze, Yves Missi https://t.co/phEyBoNiaj
— RealGM (@RealGM) January 31, 2026
