Why the New York Knicks Could Sign $166 million Miami Heat Superstar and Form Deadly Defensive Duo With Jalen Brunson, per NBA analyst | NBA News
The New York Knicks may already boast a formidable roster, but NBA analyst Jason Timpf believes that adding Miami Heat’s 3-time All-Star center Bam Adebayo could elevate them into championship contention. Speaking on The Volume’s Hoops Tonight show, Timpf suggested that Adebayo’s defensive prowess and playmaking could be the missing piece alongside Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
Why Bam Adebayo Makes Sense for the New York Knicks
The New York Knicks’ current core blends elite scoring from Brunson and Towns with strong defensive support from Mikal Bridges and other role players. However, Timpf envisions Bam Adebayo slotting into a role similar to the one Isaiah Hartenstein played two years ago – but with far greater impact.“I think if (Adebayo) kind of filled into that Isaiah Hartenstein role that he was in two years ago, I think he’d do a wonderful job of that,” Timpf said, as quoted by Dean Simon in The Sporting News. He pointed out Adebayo’s ability to run actions with Bridges and Brunson, take advantage of backdoor cuts, and anchor an already strong defensive scheme.
The Trade Hurdles for New York
Bam Adebayo of the Miami Heat (Image via USA TODAY Sports)
While the fit appears ideal, making the trade happen would be challenging due to Bam Adebayo’s $166 million contract and Miami’s reluctance to part with their franchise cornerstone. Still, a potential package exists.
Possible Knicks Trade Offer to Heat
| Knicks Trade Assets | Details |
| Josh Hart | Versatile two-way wing |
| Mitchell Robinson | Defensive-minded center |
| Pacôme Dadiet | Incoming sophomore prospect |
| Tyler Kolek | Incoming sophomore guard |
| Draft Capital | Multiple picks to sweeten the deal |
Such a deal would give the New York Knicks one of the league’s most dominant frontcourts with Towns and Adebayo – combining size, mobility, and defensive versatility rarely seen in today’s NBA.
Bam Adebayo’s 2024-25 Performance
Bam Adebayo remains one of the NBA’s top defensive big men, earning five All-Defensive Team selections in his career. His offensive contributions last season further underline his value: • 18.1 points per game • 9.6 rebounds per game • 4.3 assists per game • 1.3 steals per game • 0.7 blocks per game • 56.1% true shooting percentageAlso read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to cut ties with $52.6 million superstar in blockbuster 5-team deal with Mavericks, Bucks, Nets, and Raptors; possible Giannis-Luka duo?The New York Knicks have not reached the NBA Finals since 1999. Adding Bam Adebayo would not only solidify their defense but also create a frontcourt tandem capable of dominating both ends of the floor. While the move remains speculative, it’s the kind of swing that could turn the Knicks from contenders into favorites in the 2025-26 season.
