We're 4 games into the season and a few things are clear already with these 3 teams despite the small sample size. Washington has been better than expected and their young core is coming along well. Ironically, in a weak East, this also means that it's possible for them to actually fall out of the top 8 and convey their FRP to the Knicks. The Knicks themselves have at times looked incredible, but also fallen into bad habits from last season. And their frontcourt has not looked deep and the 3 pointers still aren't falling like you'd expect they would. And the Pelicans just look rough, it's hard not to see it any other way. Yes, they've had injuries as well but this is a team that traded away Indiana's FRP and their own FRP for the 2026 draft so they have to start winning.

In this trade, I look to trade Mitch and Dadiet for more depth and a more dependanble center, if not one at Mitch's level, than at least one who can soak up minutes. My dream players for this role are Jalen Smith and Goga Bitadze but despite the numerous mock trades with Chicago, I just don't see it happening. Their FO is really hard to predict and they've also looked pretty good in these 4 games. Likewise, Bitadze would be incredible but that's why he's so hard to replace for them and I don't see them interested in Mitch. Team by team breakdown below:

Wizards: As I referenced above, the Wizards are playing so well that it actually looks possible that their protected FRP would actually convey to the Knicks. While it's not a bad thing that they're looking much better than expected, I think they'd still want that pick, whether its for a trade or to select a new prospect in a deep 2026 draft pool. So they swap a productive player (who oddly hasn't seen many minutes this season) in Champagnie for a prospect who's 4 years younger. Dadiet has potential, but developing him means accepting that the on court product may not pay off right away, which would increase their odds of keeping their pick. But just in case, this trade sees them get their FRP back, so they could play however they wanted.

Pelicans: The Pelican's defense has looked rough through these first 4 games. And who better to help shore it up than one of the best defensive centers in the NBA? Mitch is a rebounding monster, including on offense and is one of the best rim protectors in the league. Now, I have to acknowledge that his health is a concern, as it has been his whole career. But Missi isn't giving them a ton right now, and with Looney and Matkovic, I think they can hang in the times when he's injured and bank that his on court impact is a difference maker for them. They also get Champagnie, who I wouldn't mind the Knicks getting, as a 3 and D wing who can really ball out when he's given the minutes.

Knicks: Every year I've thought of trading Mitch and every year he comes back and makes me remember why he's so valuable to this team. But the center depth just seems shallower than ever and with KAT playing through the pain, it's feeling more and more like they can't wait on his health. Plus, I think it's important the the team gets used to the new offense and him coming in and out doesn't help that. So while Missi is nowhere near the player that Mitch is, he is healthy and puts up solid numbers. Plus it helps that he has 3 more years on his contract and the Knicks don't have to worry about an extension on their payroll for a few more seasons. The Knicks also take a chance on Jordan Hawkins and hope he re-discovers his 3 point shot. He's had a couple of great games but has mostly looked closer to a bust and the Pelicans have barely played him in their first four games. He also has a big wingspan, so he could help fill out the depth chart there. The Knicks also get Jose Alvarado, who similar to Hawkins, isn't getting much play for the Pelicans but has been a solid piece in the past. I've been surprised and happy with how Kolek is playing but this gives the Knicks more options to work with. It also clears up the payroll for this year with the Knicks getting more breathing room and for next year since all 3 players are under contract for next year (and Missi is for 3 more seasons).

Depth Chart:

PG: Brunson, Kolek, Alvarado (Kolek and Alvarado could be switched)

SG: Deuce, Clarkson, Shamet

SF: Bridges, Hart, Hawkins

PF: Anunoby, Yabusuele, Diawara

C: KAT, Missi, Hukporti