Despite the New York Knicks emerging as contenders in the Eastern Conference, they are likely still kicking themselves for their big free agency mistake. When the Knicks signed Guerchon Yabusele to a 2-year, $10.7 million deal this summer, they believed they were getting a great deal.
Ironically, the Knicks already appear to be regretting the move, with them even reportedly looking to trade him, according to James L. Edwards of the Athletic. In fact, they are even apparently willing to pay to move on from him.
That's far from a great thing, with him not even playing regularly, with Yabusele appearing to be in coach Mike Brown's doghouse. He also appears to be out of shape, but who isn't? All of that should give New York buyers remorse.
The Knicks made a big mistake signing Guerschon Yabusele
Part of the reason why they want to get rid of Yabusele is due to him having guaranteed money for next season. Most of the Knicks' free agency additions were one-year minimum contracts.
That was a clear strategy with them looking for flexibility and cheap contributors. However, him having guaranteed money for next season and being out of the rotation means that he is essentially a dead salary.
Considering that the Knicks have the fifth-largest payroll in the NBA, that is a bigger problem than it otherwise might be. The absolute best-case scenario for New York would be if they could tie a Yabusele salary dump into a trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The Knicks can kill two birds with one stone in a big trade
They would likely have to part with OG Anunoby and Josh Hart. In a potential blockbuster trade, the Knicks would obviously need to include some pick swaps, and possibly even Yabusele, if they are able to get their way.
Obviously, in that scenario, the Knicks would have plenty to celebrate, with them being able to pair Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns with Giannis. Given how weak the East is, New York would seemingly have a clear path to the East Conference Finals.
That could in fact happen if the Knicks get their way and Giannis tries to force his way off the Milwaukee Bucks.
Overall, the Knicks may already be regretting signing Yabusele over the summer, with him failing to make an impact. With them having buyer's remorse, they have plenty of incentive to trade him or otherwise be stuck with him for another season.