As of April 1, 2025, there is no credible evidence to support reports that the New York Knicks are considering a major roster shake-up involving Mikal Bridges and Norman Powell. This claim appears to be speculative, as no trustworthy sources have indicated that the Knicks are parting ways with Bridges or acquiring Powell from the Los Angeles Clippers. Given the Knicks’ current trajectory and their investment in Bridges, such a trade seems highly unlikely.
The Knicks’ Commitment to Mikal Bridges
Mikal Bridges has been a crucial part of the Knicks since they acquired him from the Brooklyn Nets in June 2024. The deal sent Bojan Bogdanovic and multiple first-round picks to Brooklyn in exchange for Bridges, who has since solidified his role as a core player. Bridges’ defensive prowess, versatility, and chemistry with his former Villanova teammates—Jalen Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart—have made him an integral piece of the Knicks’ strategy.
Bridges is widely regarded as one of the NBA’s premier perimeter defenders and a strong two-way player. This season, he has averaged impressive numbers while maintaining his status as an elite wing defender. Given these factors, it would be a surprising move for the Knicks to trade him, especially considering the significant assets they gave up to acquire him less than a year ago.
Norman Powell’s Performance and Fit
Norman Powell, a 31-year-old guard for the Clippers, has had a strong season, averaging 22.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. Known for his scoring ability, Powell has been a key contributor for the Clippers, providing consistent offensive production as a shooter and slasher.
While Powell’s skill set is valuable, it does not align with the Knicks’ current needs. The Knicks already have a strong backcourt led by Jalen Brunson and Immanuel Quickley (if he remains with the team), and they prioritize defensive-minded, versatile wings—qualities that Bridges embodies. Trading a defensive anchor like Bridges for an offensive-focused guard would be a drastic shift in strategy, and there are no reports suggesting the Knicks are considering such a move.
Trade Impossibility and Future Considerations
Another critical point is that the NBA trade deadline has already passed, meaning no immediate trade can take place. If the Knicks were to consider this deal, it would have to happen in the offseason, but even then, there is no indication that the team is looking to make such a change.
The Knicks are currently in a strong position in the Eastern Conference and appear committed to their current core. Any roster adjustments they make will likely focus on bolstering depth and addressing minor weaknesses rather than executing a major shake-up.
Conclusion
At this time, the claim that the Knicks are trading Mikal Bridges for Norman Powell lacks credibility. The Knicks have invested heavily in Bridges, and there is no substantial reason to believe they would move him for an aging, offense-oriented guard. While trade rumors circulate frequently in the NBA, this particular report does not hold weight.
