Overview

• The Knicks identified defensive shortcomings in Jalen Brunson (–1.5 Defensive RAPM) and Karl-Anthony Towns (–1.3) as a critical weakness magnified in the 2025 playoffs.
• Keon Ellis ranks in the 99th percentile for shot contests with a +1.8 defensive RAPM and a 4.3% STOP%, placing him among the NBA’s top perimeter defenders.
• Offensively, Ellis shot 43.3% from three and posted a 66.4% true shooting percentage, offering efficient floor spacing alongside New York’s stars.
• Operating under the NBA’s second salary cap apron, the Knicks view Ellis’s expiring $2 million contract as a cost-effective addition to maintain roster depth.
• No trade has been finalized as the Knicks weigh proposals with Sacramento’s guard surplus and front-office uncertainty.