The New York Knicks have hit a rough patch in 2026, shifting from one of the East’s most promising squads to a team struggling to find consistency. And with the trade deadline fast approaching, the Knicks are firmly in the rumor mill, with league insiders suggesting they’re exploring multiple avenues to stabilize their roster and make a second-half push.
According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, New York currently sits at about a 45 percent chance of making a move before the February deadline. That’s not a guarantee, but it’s enough to keep fans and front offices alike on alert. And now, three names have emerged as potential targets-each offering a different wrinkle to what the Knicks might be looking for.
Jrue Holiday: The Veteran Defensive Anchor
The most intriguing name? Jrue Holiday.
According to Marc Stein, the Knicks have at least discussed the idea of pursuing the Portland Trail Blazers guard. Holiday might be stuck on a team that’s not expected to sniff the playoffs this year, but his value remains sky-high.
He’s still one of the league’s premier two-way guards-an elite perimeter defender with a steady hand on offense.
For a Knicks team that prides itself on defense under Tom Thibodeau, Holiday would be a seamless fit. He brings championship experience, leadership, and the kind of defensive tenacity that could elevate New York’s backcourt.
The question, of course, is cost. Holiday’s contract and pedigree won’t come cheap, and the Knicks will have to decide how much of their future they’re willing to part with for a short-term upgrade.
Keon Ellis: A Low-Cost, High-Upside Swing
If Holiday proves too expensive, the Knicks could pivot to a more budget-friendly option in Sacramento Kings wing Keon Ellis. Ellis is on an expiring, team-friendly deal and has reportedly drawn interest from multiple teams, including the Lakers.
Ellis entered the league in 2022 and carved out a rotation role last season, posting 8.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game while shooting an impressive 43 percent from beyond the arc. His numbers have dipped this year-down to 5.5 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.1 steals-but the tools are still there.
He’s a long, athletic perimeter defender who can knock down threes and doesn’t need the ball to make an impact. In other words, he fits the mold of a modern 3-and-D wing, and he wouldn’t require a blockbuster deal to acquire.
Jose Alvarado: Energy and Edge Off the Bench
The third name in the mix is Jose Alvarado, the scrappy, high-energy guard from New Orleans. Alvarado is the kind of player who brings juice to a second unit-an irritant on defense who thrives on effort plays and momentum-shifting moments.
Despite being undersized, Alvarado averages 1.0 steals per game and contributes 7.9 points per contest off the bench. He’s also shooting 36 percent from deep on 4.4 attempts per game, showing he can space the floor just enough to keep defenses honest. For a Knicks bench unit that’s lacked consistent production at times, Alvarado could inject some much-needed life.
What’s Next for the Knicks?
The Knicks have been linked to big names in the past-Giannis Antetokounmpo rumors pop up like clockwork-but a blockbuster doesn’t appear to be in the cards before this deadline. Instead, they seem to be eyeing more realistic, targeted additions that can help right the ship without mortgaging the future.
Whether it’s the veteran steadiness of Jrue Holiday, the upside of Keon Ellis, or the grit of Jose Alvarado, the Knicks have options. And with the East still wide open beyond the top tier, even a small move could pay big dividends come playoff time.