15 Biggest Moves in New York Knicks’ Trading History

Brad Penner/Imagn

The Knicks have always been unafraid to splash in the trade market in chasing a championship or rebuilding for the future. Some of these deals propelled them into title contention, while others held them back. Here’s a rundown of 15 impactful trades in Knicks history and how they shaped the franchise.

Latrell Sprewell (1999)

Wendell Cruz/Imagn

After losing in the Eastern Conference semifinals for four consecutive years, the Knicks took a bold step by trading John Starks and others for Latrell Sprewell at Warriors. Sprewell’s strength was essential in the Knicks’ unexpected 1999 Finals run. His performance made him a fan favorite and engraved his name into Knicks history.

Dave DeBusschere (1968)

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The Knicks made a game-changing trade in 1968; Walt Bellamy and Howard Komives were exchanged to Detroit for the talented Dave DeBusschere. Deebo, as he was known, brought his tenacious defense and high IQ to New York, which helped the Knicks blossom into champions in 1970 and 1973.

Carmelo Anthony (2011)

Keith Allison/Wikipedia

The Knicks made news when they traded for Carmelo Anthony from the Denver Nuggets and sent Wilson Chandler, Danilo Gallinari, and others packing. This move had everyone buzzing as Melo brought excitement back to Madison Square Garden and quickly became the show’s star.

Earl Monroe (1971)

Malcolm Emmons/Imagn

What a steal! The legendary Earl “The Pearl” Monroe from the Baltimore Bullets was traded in a game-changing move in November 1971. The Knicks traded Mike Riordan, Dave Stallworth, and some cash for him. Not only did Monroe dazzle fans, he was instrumental in clinching the Knicks’ 1973 championship.

Charles Oakley (1988)

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In June 1988, the Knicks made a pivotal trade by sending Bill Cartwright and two draft picks to the Bulls for Charles Oakley. The tough-as-nails Oakley, nicknamed “The Enforcer,” propelled the Knicks to the NBA Finals in 1993-94, bringing steel to New York.

Josh Hart (2023)

Brad Penner/Imagn

In February 2023, the Portland Trail Blazer Josh Hart was snagged in a four-team trade. Hart’s defensive skills helped the Knicks reach the playoffs. He signed a four-year, $81 million extension, and this secures his place as a vital part of the Knicks’ future. His energy is what New York needed!

Willis Reed (1974)

New York Knicks/Wikipedia

Two-time NBA champion, Hall of Famer, and legendary center Willis Reed was traded to the Lakers in 1974. This trade ended his iconic 10-year tenure in New York. He was known for his toughness and leadership, and his departure marked the end of an era for the Knicks and their fans.

OG Anunoby (2023)

Brad Penner/Imagn

A versatile two-way player, Anunoby was traded to the Raptors for RJ Barett and Immanuel Quickley. Through 14 games with the Knicks, he averaged 15.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.5 assists. He was the first player in franchise history to rack up six steals in consecutive games!

Marcus Camby (1998)

Tom Szczerbowski/Imagn

In the summer of 1998, the Knicks scored big by trading Marcus Camby from the Raptors in exchange for Charles Oakley and Sean Marks. Camby quickly became a reliable backup for Patrick Ewing. He helped the Knicks reach the ’99 Finals and later established himself as a top defensive big man.

Willie Naulls (1956)

Wikipedia

Starting his first season with the Knicks in 1957-58, the Knicks traded Slater Martin to the Hawks for Willie Naulls. Naulls made four straight All-Star teams and averaged 19.3 points and 11.7 rebounds in six seasons with New York, leading them to the 1959 Eastern Division Semifinals. A key piece during his era!

Bob McAdoo (1976)

Malcolm Emmons/Imagn

The Knicks scored big by trading for Bob McAdoo from the Braves. He was traded for Tom McMillen, John Gianelli, and Cash. Despite a short stint, McAdoo averaged 26.7 points and 12.0 rebounds in his first season, which made him a key player during his time in New York.

Bernard King (1982)

Brad Penner/Imagn

A scoring machine, Bernard King raged 26.5 points per game and dazzled fans at Madison Square Garden. He was exchanged for Micheal Ray Richardson and a draft pick from the Golden State Warriors. Bernard King made the All-Star team in 1984 and 1985 during his Knicks tenure.

Larry Johnson (1996)

Bryan Horowitz/Wikimedia Commons

In 1996, Anthony Mason was traded to the Hornets for Larry Johnson. LJ brought his game to MSG and helped the team reach the ’99 Finals. His memorable four-point play in the Eastern Conference Finals sealed a win against the Pacers. Although injuries shortened his time with the Knicks, LJ left an indelible mark.

Dennis Smith (2019)

All-Pro Reels/Wikimedia Commons

A blockbuster Kristaps Porzingis trade of Dennis Smith Jr. with the Mavs in 2019 helped the Knicks. Though he had potential, he struggled with injuries and inconsistency. He was later traded to the Pistons for Derrick Rose. Despite his short tenure, DSJ’s rollercoaster ride made him one of the most memorable Knicks trades.

Larry Hughes (2009)

Keith Allison/Wikimedia Commons

The Knicks aimed to boost their backcourt with depth and experience for a playoff push! James, Tim Thomas, and Anthony Roberson were traded for Larry Hughes in 2009. With his rocky stint in Chicago, he brought experience to the Knicks, which helped them better approach challenging seasons.

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