The New York Knicks have been active over the past 13 months, pursuing significant acquisitions such as OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Karl-Anthony Towns. As they approach the 2025 NBA trade deadline, questions arise regarding their potential for another meaningful transaction. While the Knicks' recent roster changes might suggest challenges in executing a notable deal, their depth chart presents a more complex picture.

The core lineup for New York, including Anunoby, Bridges, Towns, Jalen Brunson, and Josh Hart, appears solidified. However, the options available beyond this core are limited. Reliable reserves are restricted to players like Deuce McBride, Cameron Payne, and Precious Achiuwa. The situation indicates that smaller moves may be achievable, despite the team being less than $600,000 from the second apron of the salary cap. Larger trades, conversely, will require innovative thinking, which could involve trading Mitchell Robinson, who has not yet participated in the season, depending on the right team and return value.

Analyzing a potential trade scenario, the Chicago Bulls could acquire Mitchell Robinson from the Knicks along with other assets such as Tyler Kolek and two first-round draft picks from Philadelphia and Washington. In return, the Knicks would receive Ayo Dosunmu and Coby White from the Bulls. Reports on the Bulls indicate they may need to reevaluate their position regarding Coby White, particularly considering the value he could bring at a lower cost before he enters free agency in 2026.

The purported move would allow the Bulls to rebuild effectively while securing solid value through draft picks. Having one of the picks from Philadelphia likely projecting as a lottery selection adds to the appeal of trading White. A trade would not only enhance the potential return but also provide a chance to retain the Bulls' own pick, as it currently is protected if it falls outside the top 10.

Dosunmu brings defensive prowess and versatility to the Knicks, providing them with vital depth at point guard and the ability to guard multiple positions. While he may not be seen as a primary offensive creator, he has shown the capacity to manage playmaking duties, which could be advantageous for New York's spacing. This trade would address significant needs for the Knicks, particularly in bolstering their rotational depth and ensuring a flexible lineup alongside Towns or Achiuwa.

Additionally, Dosunmu's financial viability—remaining on a one-year deal worth $7.5 million—coupled with Williams’ $14.4 million over two years, ensures they fit seamlessly within New York's salary structures while offering long-term flexibility. In exchange for valuable assets like Robinson, the Knicks could prepare to enhance their roster to improve its postseason potential.

For the Bulls, moving Coby White along with an asset like the 2028 second-round pick would yield key players from the Knicks while facilitating additional future draft considerations. This reshuffle would benefit Chicago in solidifying its future roster construction while providing space beneath the tax threshold. As Robinson’s contract decreases to below $13 million in the following season, he presents an option for re-trade if health allows for his effective utilization.

At the same time, the Oklahoma City Thunder could benefit significantly from acquiring Coby White, thereby expanding their offensive capabilities. His skills as both an on- and off-ball player would enhance their postseason offense. Though there may be some adjustments to consider in terms of salary negotiations amid other rookies’ negotiations, the potential acquisition would inject a strong scoring presence without compromising the Thunder's current foundational players.

In conclusion, while the Knicks face challenges navigating the upcoming trade landscape, smart negotiations and strategic moves could allow them to make impactful deals as the 2025 trade deadline approaches.