Knicks 2026 Roster Revealed Post-NBA Trade Deadline
The New York Knicks have made a notable addition to their roster ahead of the 2026 NBA trade deadline. In a strategic maneuver, they traded for point guard Jose Alvarado from the New Orleans Pelicans. This trade involved sending Dalen Terry, two second-round picks for 2026 and 2027, and cash considerations to New Orleans.
Key Details of the Trade
Acquiring Alvarado, a 5th-year player standing at 6 feet tall, aligns with the Knicks’ intention to augment their backcourt depth and defensive capabilities. The Knicks have had Alvarado on their radar for some time due to his relentless energy and tenacity on defense. This move is especially crucial given that fellow guard Deuce McBride may miss the rest of the season.
What New York Gained
- Player: Jose Alvarado
- Position: Point Guard
- Height: 6’0″
- Undrafted Year: 2021
- College: Georgia Tech
Alvarado has emerged as a dynamic player for the Pelicans, known for his defensive prowess. He averaged 20 minutes per game over his career, showcasing a talent for creating turnovers and putting on-ball pressure. This season, he boasts a three-point shooting percentage nearing 36% on approximately 4.7 attempts per game.
Stats Overview
| Season Statistics | Points per Game (PPG) | Rebounds per Game (RPG) | Assists per Game (APG) | Steals per Game (SPG) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career Averages | 8.1 | 2.3 | 3.1 | 1.1 |
In his time with the Pelicans, Alvarado participated in 268 regular-season games, compiling over 2,170 points, 620 rebounds, 830 assists, 295 steals, and 50 blocks. His contract for the current season is $4.5 million, with one year remaining that includes a player option for the 2026-27 season.
Player Departures
To facilitate this trade, the Knicks parted ways with Dalen Terry and Guerschon Yabusele. Terry had been recently acquired from the Chicago Bulls but did not contribute significantly. Yabusele struggled in New York, averaging just 2.7 points and 2.1 rebounds per game across 41 games. His contract was seen as a burden, making the trade beneficial for cap flexibility.
Knicks’ 2026 Roster and Future Prospects
With the addition of Alvarado, the Knicks are poised to improve their depth chart. Below is an overview of their current roster:
- Jalen Brunson (PG)
- Miles McBride (PG/SG)
- Jordan Clarkson (SG/PG)
- Landry Shamet (SG/SF)
- Jose Alvarado (PG/SG)
- Tyler Kolek (PG)
- Kevin McCullar Jr. (SG/SF)
- OG Anunoby (SF/PF)
- Mikal Bridges (SF/SG)
- Josh Hart (SG/SF)
- Pacôme Dadiet (SF/PF)
- Mohamed Diawara (PF/SF)
- Dillon Jones (SF/PF)
- Karl-Anthony Towns (C/PF)
- Mitchell Robinson (C)
- Ariel Hukporti (C)
- Trey Jemison III (C)
This trade may not have made headlines like some blockbuster moves, but it reflects the Knicks’ strategic focus on building a solid and competitive team. As the NBA season progresses, fans will undoubtedly be eager to see how Alvarado complements the existing roster.
