The Knicks didn’t swing for the fences at the trade deadline, but they still managed to land a gritty, defensive-minded guard in Jose Alvarado-thanks in large part to a selfless move by Guerschon Yabusele that made the whole thing possible.
Let’s break down how the deal went down and why Yabusele’s under-the-radar decision was a quiet game-changer for New York.
The Trade Chain Reaction
Late Wednesday night, the Knicks sent Yabusele to the Bulls in exchange for Dalen Terry. That move was just the first domino. Shortly after, New York flipped Terry along with two second-round picks to the Pelicans, bringing back Alvarado in return.
On the surface, it looks like a simple three-team shuffle. But here’s where things get interesting: the trade wouldn’t have happened at all if Yabusele hadn’t agreed to tweak his contract.
Yabusele Waives Player Option to Make It Happen
According to league sources, Yabusele waived the player option on the second year of his two-year, $12 million deal-an option that would’ve kept him under contract through next season. That adjustment cleared the way for the Bulls to accept the trade, which in turn allowed the Knicks to complete the Alvarado deal.
Without that move, Chicago reportedly would’ve walked away from the deal entirely, and Alvarado never ends up in New York. So while Yabusele may not have logged heavy minutes in a Knicks uniform, he played a pivotal role in helping the front office land a player who fits their identity like a glove.
Why It Matters
From a team-building standpoint, this is a classic example of front office finesse-turning a fringe rotation player into a valuable piece by working the margins. Alvarado brings tenacity, defensive toughness, and a spark off the bench that could prove vital in the second half of the season. He’s the kind of player who can swing momentum with a single possession-diving for loose balls, pestering opposing guards full court, and igniting the Garden crowd with hustle plays.
And Yabusele? He gets a fresh start in Chicago, where he’ll likely have a bigger role and a chance to showcase his game ahead of free agency this summer.
It’s a win-win, but it’s worth noting: he didn’t have to do the Knicks any favors. With a guaranteed player option in hand, he could’ve stayed put, collected his checks, and waited for the offseason.
Instead, he chose to make himself more tradable, opening the door for a move that benefits both sides.
Bottom Line
The Knicks didn’t make a blockbuster move at the deadline, but they came away with a player who fits their culture and rotation. And they got there thanks to a behind-the-scenes assist from a player who won’t be on the roster going forward-but who just might have helped shape the back half of their season.