Knicks Bolster Team, Others Falter in Giannis Sweepstakes at NBA Deadline

Emerson Raymont

Published: February 6, 2026 7:22 PM ET

The 2024-25 NBA trade deadline revealed significant movement within the league, leading to notable adjustments for several teams. Major names like Anthony Davis and Trae Young shifted teams, while other franchises grappled with their roster dynamics.

Winners of the Trade Deadline

Washington Wizards

The Washington Wizards emerged as clear winners at the deadline. They successfully acquired Anthony Davis and Trae Young, giving up only two first-round picks. Neither of those picks is expected to be highly valuable, likely landing in the No. 20 range.

Added Player: Anthony Davis
Added Player: Trae Young
Assets Lost: Two first-round picks
Key Exits: Khris Middleton, CJ McCollum

This move positions Washington to embrace its young talent while also eyeing a potentially high lottery pick in a deep upcoming draft.

New York Knicks

The New York Knicks made a strategic move by acquiring guard Jose Alvarado for two second-round picks. Alvarado has built a reputation for strong defense and brings much-needed depth to the Knicks’ backcourt.

Added Player: Jose Alvarado
Assets Lost: Two second-round picks
Current Situation: Deuce McBride is out indefinitely, increasing the need for Alvarado

Alvarado, a native New Yorker, fits well with the Knicks’ gritty playing style, enhancing their chances as contenders.

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves added guard Ayo Dosunmu from the Chicago Bulls. This acquisition filled a critical gap in their lineup after failing to land Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Added Player: Ayo Dosunmu
Key Move: Preemptive salary dump involving Mike Conley

Dosunmu’s addition strengthens the Timberwolves, keeping them competitive in the Western Conference.

Indiana Pacers

The Indiana Pacers navigated their circumstances well by acquiring Ivica Zubac as a replacement for Myles Turner. This decision showcases their commitment to rebuilding while preparing for the talented upcoming draft.

Added Player: Ivica Zubac
Assets Lost: Myles Turner, Bennedict Mathurin, and one future first-round pick
Draft Strategy: Aiming for a potential high lottery pick

With a healthy Tyrese Haliburton next season, Indiana could rebound significantly.

Losers of the Trade Deadline

New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans had a frustrating deadline. Previously, they traded a valuable 2026 first-round pick but failed to capitalize at this deadline.

Assets Lost: Alvarado traded to the Knicks
Current Standing: 14th in the Western Conference

Instead of seeking significant moves, the Pelicans made minimal changes, indicating their struggles this season.

The Giannis Antetokounmpo Sweepstakes

The anticipation surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s potential trade left many teams disappointed. Notable franchises like the Golden State Warriors and Miami Heat aimed to acquire him but ultimately missed out.

Teams Left Disappointed: Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat
Current Outcome: Giannis remains with the Milwaukee Bucks

This outcome underscored the unpredictability of trade negotiations and left many teams reevaluating their future strategies.

In summary, the 2024-25 NBA trade deadline clarified the standings of various franchises. While some, like the Wizards and Knicks, made impactful moves, others, including the Pelicans, faced uncertainty moving forward.