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Knicks Shop Yabusele, Eye Heat’s Simone Fontecchio as Cap Crunch Shapes Deadline Plans

Tight proximity to the second apron narrows New York’s trade options, limiting buyout avenues.

Overview

  • Multiple outlets report New York is exploring packages built around Guerschon Yabusele, with Pacome Dadiet and draft assets included.
  • The Wizards’ protected 2026 first-round pick is expected by reporters to likely convert into multiple second-rounders, affecting how rival teams value the Knicks’ offers.
  • League reporting indicates the Knicks are targeting a ball-handling, defensive wing and are evaluating a dependable third-string center as insurance for Mitchell Robinson.
  • With roughly $150,000 of room below the second apron, the Knicks cannot take back more salary in trades and cannot sign buyout players who earned above the $12 million mid-level exception.
  • Miami’s Simone Fontecchio is cited as a realistic target at about $8.3 million, while Landry Shamet nears a return after a full practice and Jalen Brunson’s ankle status remains unofficial after he exited early without a boot or crutches observed.