The New York Knicks have been linked to Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo since last summer. However, if New York makes a move before the deadline, it might be for a lesser-known, smaller-salaried frontcourt player.
The Knicks have shown interest in veteran center Goga Bitadze of the Orlando Magic and second-year center Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans. Both players would cost a lot less to acquire than Antetokounmpo, both in terms of the outgoing assets and matching salary. New York is tight to their second-apron hard cap, which means adding salary in a trade is a no-go for the team.
Bitadze makes $8.3 million this season and $7.6 million next season. He’s been in and out of the Magic rotation this season. Bitadze has averaged 5.9 points, and 5.2 rebounds in 16.4 minutes per game.
Missi makes $3.3 million in the second year of his rookie scale deal. He has two more season on his first contract at $3.5 million in 2026-27 and $5.6 million team option in 2027-38. Missi has averaged 5.6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in 19 minutes per game this season.