NBA Trades: 1 potential last-minute deal to shake up all 30 NBA teams

NBA Trades: New York Knicks

The new-look The New York Knicks look like contenders for the first time in years but may still be one piece away from having a championship roster, especially after trading for Karl-Anthony Towns. That piece is a backup big man that would help shore up their defense and provide depth in case of injury to Mitchell Robinson. The most likely trade option could be Utah Jazz big man Walker Kessler, who in his first two seasons already established himself as one of the best rim protectors in the NBA.

Nevertheless, the Jazz seem open to moving him, and he would be the perfect trade target for the Knicks since he is still on his rookie contract and thus easier to acquire. One possible trade package could include the Knicks sending Cam Payne, Jericho Sims, and a top-3 protected 2030 pick swap for Kessler.

That would give New York an above-average rim protector who is just 23 years old and has two years left on a cheap contract. If he works out, then they would potentially be able to keep him beyond that.

For the Jazz, they may not get the two firsts that they are seeking, but they may get a lottery pick if they are willing to accept a distant pick swap from the ready-to-win Knicks. If they are, then New York should do the deal.