NBA Trade Rumors: New York Knicks might get $104.72 million Memphis Grizzlies big man to form power duo with KAT; Mikal Bridges key trade asset?
Karl-Anthony Towns (Image via Imagn)
The
New York Knicks
are eyeing a major offseason move to push them closer to an NBA title after falling short in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals. A potential blockbuster trade involving Mikal Bridges could bring
Grizzlies
superstar
Jaren Jackson Jr.
to Madison Square Garden.
Why the New York Knicks Are Targeting Jaren Jackson Jr.
The
New York Knicks
came agonizingly close to the NBA Finals this season, losing to the Indiana Pacers in a hard-fought series. Despite strong performances from All-Stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, the team lacked one more elite piece to get over the hump.
Enter Jaren Jackson Jr. The Memphis Grizzlies' star, a two-time All-Star and 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, could be the missing link. Reports suggest the Grizzlies may be open to trading him as they pivot toward a rebuild after dealing Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic.
According to ClutchPoints' Kris Pursiainen, the Knicks have long been interested in Jackson Jr.: "Sources familiar with the situation tell ClutchPoints that at least one key member of the Knicks' front office has long been interested in Jackson Jr. as a trade target." (H/t: Sporting News)
Potential Trade Package
Jaren Jackson Jr (Image via Sky Sports)
To acquire Jaren Jackson Jr., the New York Knicks would likely need to part with Mikal Bridges, a key two-way player. The Grizzlies previously offered four first-round picks for Bridges in 2023, signaling their high valuation of him.
Pursiainen outlines a possible deal:
- Knicks Receive:
- Jaren Jackson Jr.
- Vince Williams Jr.
- John Konchar
- Grizzlies Receive:
- Mikal Bridges
- Mitchell Robinson
- 1 first-round pick
- 3 second-round picks
Why This Trade Makes Sense
For the Knicks
For the Grizzlies
Adds an elite two-way big man to pair with Towns
Gets a proven wing in Bridges
Strengthens frontcourt defense and spacing
Acquires future draft assets for rebuild
Creates a true Big 3 (Brunson, Towns, Jackson Jr.)
Sheds salary while adding young talent
How Jackson Jr. Elevates the New York Knicks
At just 25 years old, Jackson Jr. is coming off his best offensive season, averaging:
- 22.2 points
- 5.6 rebounds
- 2.0 assists
- 37.5% from three on 5.3 attempts per game
Defensively, he remains a force, leading the league in blocks twice and earning three All-Defensive Team selections.
His ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim would make him an ideal fit next to Towns.
The Cost of Losing Bridges
While Bridges has been a reliable scorer and defender for the Knicks, Jackson Jr.'s upside might be too good to pass up. His arrival would give New York a championship-caliber trio, positioning them as serious contenders in what should be a wide-open Eastern Conference next season.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to bag 6-feet-8 Portlan Trail Blazers big man and form Big 3 with Luka Doncic and LeBron James; key trade asset a bold choice?
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on whether the Knicks pull the trigger on this high-stakes trade. If they do, it could finally bring the Larry O'Brien Trophy back to New York.
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