Knicks may unite Karl-Anthony Towns with $125 million forward, deal former DPOY runner-up

The New York Knicks could be looking to make a few changes following their 2025 Eastern Conference Finals elimination at the hands of the Indiana Pacers.

Heading into this offseason, the Knicks will also have some decisions to make with regard to future contractual obligations. Mikal Bridges will have an expiring $24.9 million salary in 2025-26, and New York's front office will decide whether or not he can be an integral piece of a true title contender.

The Knicks could also entertain the idea of trading the two-way wing in an effort to try something new. While Bridges performed on the offensive end throughout his first campaign in New York, he saw a massive decline as a defender throughout the regular season, as he registered a career-low 118 defensive rating per 100 possessions and a surprising -0.9 defensive box plus-minus. 

If the Knicks do intend on shopping Bridges this offseason, it's plausible to believe that the storied franchise could contact the Utah Jazz in an effort to trade for their star power forward and consistent scorer, John Collins.

Though Collins will also be on an expiring contract if he accepts a $26.5 million player option this summer, his scoring prowess and defensive improvements could lead to the Knicks exploring a deal for the 27-year-old involving both Bridges and their No. 25 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Pacome Dadiet.

Collins could be looking to jump ship for a spot on a title contender after authoring a fantastic 2024-25 campaign. In just 40 appearances for the lowly 17-65 Jazz, the 6-foot-9 high-flying forward contributed 19.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks while boasting an efficient 62.8% true shooting percentage.

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A versatile scoring threat and reliable outside shot-maker, Collins posted a 39.9% three-point percentage last season. By prospectively pairing him with the Knicks' 5-time All-Star and elite shooting center Karl-Anthony Towns in the frontcourt, New York could form one of the deadliest offensive big-man tandems in the NBA.

Add this potentially wonderful duo along with the production of 2025 Clutch Player of the Year and 2-time All-NBA Team selection Jalen Brunson, the Knicks could become an unstoppable scoring unit.

Unfortunately for New York, the acquisition of Collins remains unrealistic and highly unlikely due to his expiring deal.

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