With the NBA trade deadline approaching on Thursday, February 5, the New York Knicks are expected to explore options to strengthen their roster for the stretch run. While speculation has centered on blockbuster possibilities, New York may also pursue targeted additions to bolster its depth. One name emerging as a potential fit is Ayo Dosunmu of the Chicago Bulls.
According to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post, Dosunmu is among the players the Knicks could consider in the coming days. The guard is in the final year of his contract, and Chicago is reportedly open to moving him for the right return.
Dosunmu’s value has risen this season. He is enjoying a career year as a key role player and occasional starter, averaging a personal-best 15.1 points per game while shooting a career-high 45.4 percent from three-point range. Notably, he is producing those numbers despite playing the second-fewest minutes per game of his five-year NBA career.
Any move for Dosunmu would likely be a short-term investment for New York. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent at season’s end, meaning the Knicks would need to negotiate a new deal to retain him. Spotrac projects his next contract to carry an average annual value of approximately $14.3 million, a figure that factors into the complexity of any trade.
Chicago’s leverage in negotiations is significant. Injuries have thinned the Bulls’ backcourt, increasing Dosunmu’s importance, and his strong performance gives the team little incentive to move him at a discount.
From New York’s perspective, draft capital is available, but financial constraints loom large. The Knicks are already above the luxury tax line and the first apron, though they remain below the second apron. Any trade would require matching or exceeding salary going out to avoid crossing that threshold, making a picks-only deal impractical.
On the court, Dosunmu would not be expected to start. Instead, he would slot in behind Jalen Brunson, providing reliable minutes off the bench. Brunson’s impact is clear, as New York’s offense improves dramatically when he is on the floor. Finding a way to sustain that production during his rest periods remains a priority.
Dosunmu’s ability to handle the ball, defend, and score efficiently could address that need. Head coach Mike Brown would gain a dependable reserve capable of steadying the offense and maintaining pace when Brunson sits.
Acquiring Dosunmu would require careful maneuvering to satisfy both Chicago’s asking price and New York’s cap limitations. If a deal can be worked out, however, the Knicks would add a proven, versatile guard as they push toward the playoffs.
