Knicks predicted to trade for hidden gem on Kings

The New York Knicks have recently been linked to a Sacramento Kings contributor in trade speculations.

Mock trade has Knicks acquire Kings’ Keon Ellis

Athlon Sports’ Nathaniel Holloway highlighted a mock trade from Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley that would send Kings guard Keon Ellis to New York in exchange for Miles McBride as well as a future first-round pick in 2026.

Ellis was applauded for his third season in the NBA in 2024-25. The Alabama product averaged 8.3 points per game on 48.9 percent shooting from the field, as well as 43.3 percent from three-point range.

Ellis would be a good fit in New York

The Knicks could use an offensive contributor with the praiseworthy efficiency that Ellis has shown as he’s matured in the league. Nevertheless, McBride is a valued player on their bench.

McBride is on par with Ellis as a scorer, as well as in the outside shooting department. However, the West Virginia product brings pesky defense to New York’s unit that is invaluable.

Nevertheless, the Knicks would not be bringing in a slouch on defense, as Ellis’ defensive box plus/minus (2.0 DBPM) last season ranked No. 7 among all players last season.

Thus, a deal of this magnitude, with a draft pick of lesser value included on the Knicks’ part, would be advantageous for New York.

By Matthew Legros

Matt Legros grew up in New York City and has interned for CBS Sports and SNY, and written for ... More about Matthew Legros