Blockbuster trade proposal sends talented Jazz duo to the Knicks in exchange of three super talents

The New York Knicks have the opportunity to acquire two more win-now pieces in a trade with the Utah Jazz, positioning themselves as top-tier contenders this season.

The New York Knicks made a major splash in the NBA by trading for Karl-Anthony Towns, sending Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo to the Timberwolves on Saturday. This move positions them as a top contender in the Eastern Conference.

While the team has a few minor gaps to fill, they are well-prepared to challenge the Boston Celtics and compete with any team in the league. With backup center Mitchell Robinson possibly on the trading block, the Knicks still have sufficient assets to pursue another significant deal.

The Utah Jazz have been caught in a cycle of trying to be competitive while also considering tanking since 2022. They’ve begun the last two seasons strongly, only to shift to tanking after February to enhance their draft position. Rather than waiting until late in the season to tank, the Jazz could better position themselves to take advantage of the deep 2025 NBA Draft by trading away two players focused on immediate wins.

A potential trade involving Walker Kessler and Jordan Clarkson in exchange for draft picks, young talent, and Mitchell Robinson could be a beneficial move for both teams.

Trade Details

New York Knicks Receive: Walker Kessler, Jordan Clarkson

 

 

Utah Jazz Receive: Mitchell Robinson, Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Kolek, 2026 Second-Round Pick (GSW), 2028 Second-Round Pick (BOS)

This trade would bring the Jazz two highly promising prospects from the 2024 Draft, with Dadiet in particular projected to have significant potential. Mitchell Robinson would serve as a solid interim center for the Jazz, offering more experience and refinement compared to Kessler. However, he might either be put on the trade block or have the opportunity to revitalize his career in Utah.

The Knicks Add Two Win-Now Pieces To Make Themselves Stronger

The Knicks’ acquisitions of Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns this offseason highlight their commitment to competing right away. The franchise isn’t waiting for other Eastern Conference teams to strengthen their rosters to challenge the Celtics. Adding Walker Kessler and Jordan Clarkson in a third major trade could create a lineup capable of competing with any team in the NBA.

Kessler averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks last season, solidifying his reputation as a formidable interior defender. Although his limited offensive versatility led the Jazz to prefer more adaptable options like John Collins, the Knicks could provide an ideal bench role for him. With Towns energizing the offense, Kessler could serve as a defense-first big man, either backing up Towns or playing alongside him.

Clarkson, who averaged 17.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 5.0 assists last season, would add significant on-ball playmaking to the Knicks’ offense. Now a true combo guard, he could bring his Sixth Man of the Year potential to New York, stepping in for either Jalen Brunson or Mikal Bridges, or playing alongside them in the backcourt.

While this trade would mean parting with two promising young prospects, the Knicks are focused on immediate contributions as they aim for a championship this season.