The New York Knicks may acquire a talented forward with a special tie to their star center.
The New York Knicks' offseason has been recognized as a success by the broader NBA world, but the storied franchise might have another card up their sleeve.
New York's newly-branded emphasis on bench production led the organization to acquire one of the NBA's best bench performers and 2021 Sixth Man of the Year award winner Jordan Clarkson as well as the Philadelphia 76ers' key frontcourt presence Guerschon Yabusele on team-friendly deals in free agency.
To cap off an offseason headlined by a culture-shifting coaching change and productive signings, the Knicks may be in the market to make one more crucial addition to the squad.
According to recent reports, the Knicks have been named as a potential suitor for the Sacramento Kings' experienced forward and reliable contributor, Trey Lyles. In fact, his connection with New York's 5-time All-Star and 2016 Rookie of the Year Karl-Anthony Towns could prove to be an important wrinkle in possible negotiations.
"Given his experience in this league, Lyles can be a great late-offseason addition to any team wanting to beef up their frontcourt," ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel wrote Tuesday evening.
"Perhaps a team like the Knicks, which have limited space remaining and has two roster spots to fill, could add Lyles next to Karl-Anthony Towns, his former Kentucky teammate."
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
If the Knicks can add Lyles on a minimum deal, the 29-year-old floor-spacing big man can truly round out the team's reserve rotation prior to a pivotal 2025-26 campaign.
The former No. 12 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft to the Utah Jazz has built a reputation as a consistent and solid bench option. In 69 appearances and just five starts for the Kings in 2024-25, Lyles contributed 6.5 points and 4.6 rebounds while knocking down 34.0% of his 3.4 attempts from three-point range.
While his outside shot-making efficiency left much to be desired, Lyles has shown he's capable of topping 38.0% accuracy from distance with relative ease.
By prospectively adding Lyles into the fold alongside his former University of Kentucky teammate Towns in certain packages, their combined shooting prowess as a frontcourt tandem might cause havoc for opposing defenses.
More NBA: Mavericks blockbuster trade proposal lands them Heat All-Star
Category: Basketball
