The New York Knicks continue to bolster their roster, signing Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet, bringing their total offseason acquisitions to four players. Previously, the Knicks were only $3.7 million away from the second luxury tax threshold, meaning they may need to make additional moves to retain both new signings. Reports suggest that last year’s 25th overall pick, Ousmane Dieng, could be among the players most likely to be traded.
With Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton sidelined next season due to Achilles injuries, the Eastern Conference landscape is set for considerable shake-ups. Quietly, the Knicks have added Brogdon, Shamet, Jordan Clarkson, who signed a one-year $3.6 million deal, and Ousmane Abouo-Sele, who signed a two-year $12 million contract. Notably, both Clarkson and Brogdon have previously earned NBA Sixth Man of the Year honors.
Beyond player acquisitions, the Knicks have fired head coach Tom Thibodeau and replaced him with former Kings head coach Mike Brown. Thibodeau had led New York to their first Eastern Conference Finals in 25 years, but ultimately lost control of the locker room, resulting in his dismissal. Five assistant coaches were also let go.
New Additions’ Performance Data
Malcolm Brogdon (last season with the Wizards): 12.7 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.1 APG, 0.5 SPG, shooting 43.3% FG, 28.6% 3P, 88% FT
Landry Shamet (last season with Knicks): 5.7 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 0.5 APG, 0.5 SPG, shooting 46.1% FG, 39.7% 3P, 66.7% FT
Ousmane Abouo-Sele (last season with 76ers): 11 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 2.1 APG, shooting 50.1% FG, 38% 3P, 72.5% FT
Jordan Clarkson (last season with Jazz): 16.2 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 3.7 APG, shooting 40.8% FG, 36.2% 3P, 79.7% FT
Except for Shamet, all three of the other new signings averaged double-digit points, providing immediate scoring depth. Financially, all but Abouo-Sele are on minimum-salary deals, with two of them non-guaranteed contracts, allowing the Knicks to strengthen their bench at minimal cost.
With these offseason moves, New York has addressed one of their long-standing weaknesses: bench scoring and depth. The Knicks now appear better equipped to compete in the East and potentially disrupt the top-heavy conference.
Question for discussion: Considering the current offseason moves across the league, which team do you think could emerge as the dark horse in the Eastern Conference next season?
