Knicks Rumored To Be Interested In Jrue Holiday

Rumors about the New York Knicks exploring a deal for Portland guard Jrue Holiday have picked up steam thanks to Marc Stein, as the trade deadline approaches, and the fit makes a lot of sense for a team trying to stabilize after a shaky January. Holiday, earning $32.4 million this season, remains one of the league’s most reliable two‑way guards even at 35 years of age. He’s still producing at a high level, averaging 15.3 points, 6.9 assists, and 4.5 rebounds, plus his usual elite defensive impact, and would immediately give New York the kind of perimeter stopper and secondary playmaker they’ve lacked during their recent slump. With the Knicks ranking just 17th in defensive rating this season, adding one of the NBA’s smartest and most versatile defenders could be a genuine difference‑maker.

The roster fit is almost seamless. Jalen Brunson is having a career offensive year, but he’s carrying a massive load and often ends up guarding players who physically overwhelm him. Holiday would take those assignments every night, allowing Brunson to conserve energy for scoring and late‑game creation. Pairing Holiday with wings like Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby would give New York one of the most switchable, disciplined defensive trios in the league. Offensively, Holiday’s ability to run secondary actions and hit spot‑ups would complement Brunson without disrupting the playbook, and his playoff experience would add a steadying presence to a team that has struggled with consistency.

But acquiring him won’t be cheap. To match Holiday’s salary, the Knicks would likely need to move at least one rotation‑level contract, such as Josh Hart ($19.4m) or Mitchell Robinson ($12.9m) and Jordan Clarkson ($2.3m), along with a young piece such as Miles McBride or Tyler Kolek, depending on how aggressive Portland is in seeking upside. Draft capital would almost certainly be required as well, likely a first‑round pick and possibly more depending on the market. The Knicks have the assets to make a competitive offer without touching their core of Brunson, Bridges, Anunoby, and Karl‑Anthony Towns, but the front office will need to decide how much future flexibility they’re willing to sacrifice for a win‑now upgrade.

The Knicks are likely one playoff veteran piece away from returning to contender form. Holiday might be exactly the kind of late-season move that pushes them back toward the top of the East.