he New York Knicks have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring shooting guard Lonnie Walker IV, who is currently under contract with EuroLeague team Žalgiris Kaunas. This development has emerged as the NBA trade deadline has passed, and teams are now focusing on potential buyout candidates to strengthen their rosters for the remainder of the season.
Background on Lonnie Walker IV
Lonnie Walker IV, a 6’4″ shooting guard, was selected 18th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft by the San Antonio Spurs. Over his six-year NBA career, Walker has played for the Spurs, Los Angeles Lakers, and Brooklyn Nets, averaging 9.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. Notably, during the 2023-24 season with the Nets, he averaged 9.7 points per game off the bench.
In October 2024, after being waived by the Boston Celtics, Walker signed with Žalgiris Kaunas in the EuroLeague. His contract includes an NBA opt-out clause, allowing him to return to the NBA if a suitable offer arises. This clause is valid until February 18, 2025, making him a potential target for teams seeking to bolster their backcourt depth.
Knicks’ Interest in Walker
The New York Knicks have reportedly shown interest in acquiring Walker. The Knicks have been active in the trade market, making moves to strengthen their roster. Adding a player like Walker could provide the team with additional scoring and depth in the backcourt.
Other Teams Interested
In addition to the Knicks, several other NBA teams have expressed interest in Walker. The Philadelphia 76ers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Denver Nuggets, and Boston Celtics have all been linked to the veteran guard. This widespread interest underscores Walker’s value and the potential impact he could have on a team’s performance.
Potential Impact on the Knicks
If the Knicks were to acquire Walker, his scoring ability and experience could be valuable assets. His tenure with the Brooklyn Nets demonstrated his capability to contribute offensively, averaging 9.7 points per game. Integrating Walker into the Knicks’ rotation could provide a scoring boost and enhance the team’s overall depth.
Conclusion
As the February 18 deadline approaches, the New York Knicks’ interest in Lonnie Walker IV highlights their commitment to strengthening their roster for a playoff push. Walker’s scoring prowess and experience make him an attractive option for teams looking to enhance their backcourt. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the Knicks can secure Walker’s services and how his addition might impact their season.
