Knicks Quietly Improve at Trade Deadline

Team President Leon Rose makes savvy moves to bolster roster

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Despite a relatively quiet trade deadline, New York Knicks team president Leon Rose made a couple of shrewd moves that have improved the team's outlook for the rest of the season and playoffs. The Knicks were able to acquire point guard Jose Alvarado from the Pelicans in exchange for Guerschon Yabusele and two second-round picks, giving them a solid backup to starting point guard Jalen Brunson.

Why it matters

The Knicks are currently in the mix to reach the NBA Finals, along with the Detroit Pistons, and these deadline moves by Rose have positioned the team well to make a deep playoff run. While other Eastern Conference contenders like the Cavaliers made headline-grabbing trades, the Knicks took a more measured approach that has strengthened their roster.

The details

In the Alvarado trade, the Knicks were able to acquire a young, energetic point guard who can provide quality minutes off the bench. Alvarado, 24, has shown flashes of strong defense and playmaking ability in his first two NBA seasons. The Knicks parted with Yabusele, a little-used forward, and a couple second-round picks, a small price to pay for a potential long-term backup point guard.

  • The NBA trade deadline was on February 9, 2026.

The players

Leon Rose

The president of basketball operations for the New York Knicks, who has made several shrewd moves to improve the team's roster.

Jose Alvarado

A 24-year-old point guard acquired by the Knicks from the New Orleans Pelicans, who will provide depth and defense off the bench.

Guerschon Yabusele

A little-used forward who the Knicks traded to the Pelicans as part of the deal for Alvarado.

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What they’re saying

“Jose Alvarado gives the Knicks a bonafide backup point guard.”

— Stefan Bondy, New York Post Writer (New York Post)

What’s next

The Knicks will look to continue their strong play and secure a top seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

The takeaway

Despite a quiet trade deadline, Knicks team president Leon Rose made a savvy move to acquire point guard Jose Alvarado, bolstering the team's depth and positioning them well for a deep playoff run in the Eastern Conference.