Nigerian star James Nnaji joins New York Knicks in major NBA trade
The complicated trade deal involving Julius Randle and Karl-Anthony Towns has been finalized, with Nigerian player James Nnaji joining the New York Knicks.
The deal was part of a larger agreement between the Charlotte Hornets, Minnesota Timberwolves, and New York Knicks.
James Nnaji, who was originally selected by the Hornets with the 31st pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, will now move to New York as part of this multi-team trade. Along with Nnaji, Charlotte will also send three second-round picks and three players (Charlie Brown Jr., Duane Washington Jr., and DaQuan Jeffries) to the Knicks.
In exchange, the Timberwolves will receive Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, Keita Bates-Diop, and a 2025 top-13 protected Detroit pick. Nnaji, a 20-year-old center from Nigeria, was expected to be a first-round pick in the 2023 Draft but ended up being selected in the second round. Known for his athleticism, Nnaji has been playing in Europe with Barcelona on loan at Girona.
Now that he’s set to join the Knicks, Nnaji is expected to team up with fellow Nigerian player Precious Achiuwa, giving New York another strong presence in the paint.
