Knicks Chase Pelicans Jose Alvarado Yves Missi Before Deadline

Merlin sees the Knicks circling Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado and center Yves Missi as the trade deadline nears. Alvarado offers hustle, lockdown defense and a 35.0 percent career three, averaging 7.9 points in 22 minutes while markedly improving New Orleans’ defense when he’s on the floor. Missi is a 21-year-old rim protector (5.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 1.4 BPG) who draws "strong interest" and would likely cost significant draft capital. New York sits 33-18 on an eight-game streak but still shows perimeter lapses and has backup guard Miles McBride sidelined. Merlin predicts the Knicks will chase the immediate, low-disruption defensive boost Alvarado provides; Missi is tempting for the future but only if New York is ready to pay up in picks.