The New York Knicks are in discussions with multiple teams about a potential Guerschon Yabusele trade as the NBA deadline approaches, according to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post. The conversations reflect New York’s effort to fine-tune the roster rather than pursue a major shakeup.
Bondy reported Thursday that the Knicks are actively trying to unload Yabusele after his role failed to materialize following a notable offseason signing. “According to sources, the Knicks are talking with multiple teams ahead of the deadline trying to unload Guerschon Yabusele,” Bondy wrote.
Yabusele, 30, signed a two-year, $11 million contract last summer with the expectation of strengthening the second unit. Instead, his Knicks tenure has stalled amid a crowded frontcourt and established rotation.
“He was their big summer signing to fortify the bench but his Knicks career never got off the ground,” Bondy reported. Usage trends back up that assessment.
The French forward has become a fringe rotation piece in recent weeks. He has failed to log more than nine minutes in seven of the last eight games, limiting his ability to carve out consistent on-court value.
On the season, Yabusele is averaging 2.8 points and 2.1 rebounds in 9.1 minutes across 40 games. He is shooting 39.3 percent from the field and 29.4 percent from three-point range, numbers that have not demanded a larger role.
Roster construction has played a major role in that outcome. Jalen Brunson leads the offense at 27.6 points per game, while Karl-Anthony Towns anchors the interior with 20.2 points and 11.6 rebounds.
OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart log heavy minutes on the wing, leaving few opportunities for reserve forwards. Mitchell Robinson and multiple young centers further limit frontcourt flexibility.
Bondy also noted that Yabusele’s contract complicates trade efforts. “Part of the problem with trying to trade Yabusele is his player option for next season which is approaching $6 million,” he reported.
That option has become a key consideration for opposing teams weighing short-term depth against future salary commitments. New York, meanwhile, is focused on maintaining financial flexibility beyond this season.
NBA insider Marc Stein previously reported that the Knicks are prioritizing smaller deals built around Yabusele’s $5.5 million salary. His contract can function as matching money under league trade rules without impacting the core rotation.
The Knicks currently sit second in the Eastern Conference at 29-18, five and a half games behind the Detroit Pistons. With a playoff spot firmly in hand, the front office has little incentive to disrupt chemistry.
