The Knicks have limited draft assets to trade after their big moves for Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns.
With no cap space after re-signing OG Anunoby to a franchise-record contract and adding Towns’ four-year, $220 million extension, they must turn to their draft picks. second round to smooth future exchanges.
Here’s a look at the Knicks’ second-round draft capital, how they acquired those picks and which ones are most valuable.
Most valuable: Knicks picks in 2031 and 2032
By 2031, the Knicks may no longer be contenders. Championship windows close and the consequences of going all-in tend to be felt later. If the Knicks find themselves in rebuilding mode between now and then, their second-round picks could land in the early 30s, making these picks very attractive to forward-looking teams.
Second most valuable: Warriors’ 2026 pick
The Warriors are approaching a crossroads. With Klay Thompson in Dallas and Stephen Curry in his late 30s, the team might struggle to stay competitive in the West. If the Warriors miss the playoffs for the second straight season, the value of this pick could increase significantly given the uncertainty over Curry’s future and the Warriors’ desire to compete for a title.
Third most valuable: Least favorable of Bucks, Magic and Detroit in 2026
This pick, acquired from Brooklyn in the Mikal Bridges deal, has a few variables. The Pistons are probably out of the picture, but Orlando’s rise and Milwaukee’s potential decline add intrigue. If the Bucks falter, the Knicks could end up with the Orlando pick, which wouldn’t be a bad outcome.
Fourth most valuable: Second and third most favorable from the Heat, Pacers, Rockets and Thunder in 2027
As part of the Jones trade to the Thunder, the Knicks will receive two of four second-round teams, depending on how their seasons go. While Miami’s aging core could lead to a decline, Indiana, Houston and OKC should remain competitive, making them a mid-tier asset.
Least valuable: Celtics 2028 pick
The Knicks own the Celtics’ protected 2028 top-45 second-round pick, acquired via the Dillon Jones trade to Oklahoma City. Boston’s core — Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, Derrick White and possibly Kristaps Porzingis — likely keeps them in contention, making this pick unappealing as a sweetener.
Second Least Valuable: Knicks’ 2026 Pick
The Knicks are in win-now mode, and if they continue their strong performance from last season, this pick could end up being one of the last in the draft.
If the title window remains open, this selection won’t carry much weight in trade negotiations.
Third least valuable: Timberwolves’ 2027 pick
As Anthony Edwards rises to stardom, the Timberwolves become a top contender. Their recent 56-win season and the Towns trade make this pick one of the least valuable assets in the Knicks’ war chest.
Fourth Least Valuable: Grizzlies’ 2025 Pick
Ja Morant and the Grizzlies are poised to make a strong playoff run after an up-and-down season. While Memphis will likely remain competitive, their 2025 second-rounder has little value in trade discussions.
Pick remaining in second round
The Knicks also hold Indiana and Phoenix’s less favorable 2028 second-round picks, acquired in the Obi Toppin trade to the Pacers. With both teams on solid trajectories, this pick is unlikely to be significant.
Without recruiting capital or significant cap space, the Knicks will need creativity to craft attractive trade packages and close the distance between the defending champion Celtics.
Their best assets – players aside – lie in their future second rounds, which must be used strategically for maximum gain.
