New York Knicks

The New York Knicks are reportedly eyeing a new contract for free-agent power forward Precious Achiuwa following Isaiah Hartenstein's departure to the Oklahoma City Thunder, per The Athletic's Fred Katz.

"One name to watch is Precious Achiuwa, the unrestricted free agent who filled in admirably as a backup center and power forward for the Knicks this past season," Katz wrote. "New York chose not to extend a qualifying offer to Achiuwa, which would have made him a restricted free agent but made that decision purely because it was better for the team's cap flexibility. The Knicks are leaving open the possibility of re-signing Achiuwa, a league source said. Were Achiuwa to return, he would play behind Robinson."

Achiuwa, who joined the Knicks halfway through the year last season, averaged 7.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game in 49 games with the team.

As Katz noted, the Knicks did not extend a qualifying offer to Achiuwa, which made him an unrestricted free agent. As teams vie to get a big man on the free-agent market this offseason, Achiuwa could have a few teams looking to pick him up.

But with a chance to play solid minutes for a team likely to be a contender for the Finals, Achiuwa could opt to remain with New York if given the chance.

The Knicks had one of the best role players in the league with Hartenstein, but they couldn't outbid the Thunder and are now looking to replace the rim protector. Most of the top free-agent big men in the league have agreed to deals at this point, so retaining Achiuwa could be New York's best option.

The Knicks already made a splash this offseason, trading for Brooklyn Nets swingman Mikal Bridges. After that deal, it seems unlikely New York will target any more All-Star talent, but it still has the chance to get better by adding solid role players.

The New York Knicks have been loading up so far this offseason, but they finally took one on the chin Monday.

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported that productive fan favorite center Isaiah Hartenstein made the decision to leave the Knicks in free agency on Monday, agreeing to a three-year, $87 million deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Knicks forward Josh Hart cracked a joke on X about Hartenstein's Knicks tenure coming to an end while also congratulating his former teammate on landing a huge deal:

You are dead to me Zay. I never liked you anyways. But congrats on the bag! https://t.co/EhixMJNRFt

— Josh Hart (@joshhart) July 1, 2024

Hartenstein's departure was expected since the Knicks acquired wing Mikal Bridges in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets and re-signed wing OG Anunoby on a five-year, $212.5 million contract, but fans still took to social media to express concern over what the loss of Hartenstein could mean for New York:

KNICKS FANS ARE IN SHAMBLES LMAOOO pic.twitter.com/7ZnNpqYCTl

— Dunkadelphia (@PhillyDunk) July 1, 2024

KNICKS R DONE

— Dead President Picks (@DeadPresPicks) July 1, 2024

First sad day for NY Knicks Basketball in a while

— IsaacA3 (@a3_isaac) July 1, 2024

Knicks need to find a center upgrade NOW

— Santo (@sn_5713) July 1, 2024

WERE ALL HERE FOR THE NY KNICKS DOWNFALL😭

— RJ (@phisportfanatic) July 1, 2024

Knicks fans rn pic.twitter.com/ceChoXnM8w

— FanDuel (@FanDuel) July 1, 2024

we get it from Hartenstein point of view, but the Knicks having to rely on Mitch is going to prevent them from getting to an ECF.

— MattyCon (@mattycon1215) July 1, 2024

Knicks fans: pic.twitter.com/mzHMv8JgVi

— Caesars Sportsbook (@CaesarsSports) July 1, 2024

The Knicks losing this guy might just have set them back. I think he’s very underrated as a center

— Jay Alex (@Jay_Alex__) July 1, 2024

Fred Katz of The Athletic reported that the Knicks made the strongest play they could to keep Hartenstein, while Stefan Bondy of the New York Post added that Hartenstein struggled with the decision to leave the Knicks but couldn't turn down the contract OKC offered him:

This move, however, did not catch the Knicks by surprise. Reported days ago that the organization was increasingly pessimistic about its chances at keeping Hartenstein, who it sensed would field offers far above NYK's max offer.

This was why. https://t.co/jJxn3nxAhN

— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) July 1, 2024

Heard from multiple people how tough a decision it was for Hartenstein to leave the Knicks. He really wanted to stay. Loved his time with Knicks. Difference in average salary is almost double though, plus cost of living is cheaper in OKC.

— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) July 1, 2024

The 26-year-old Hartenstein spent the past two seasons with the Knicks, and he is coming off the best campaign of his career to date, which played a big role in him landing the largest contract of his career.

Hartenstein started a career-high 49 of the 75 games he appeared in last season, averaged 7.8 points per game and set or matched career highs in rebounds per game (8.3), assists per game (2.5), steals per game (1.2), blocks per game (1.1) and minutes per game 25.3.

The 7-footer was a key contributor, particularly on the defensive end, and the Knicks will undoubtedly miss his skill set next season.

The Knicks do have arguably the best core in the Eastern Conference aside from the Boston Celtics with Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, Donte DiVincenzo, Hart, Bridges and Anunoby, but they are now severely lacking in terms of interior depth.

As far as current roster players go, Mitchell Robinson is by far New York's best option at center.

Robinson, 26, has had success in the past and averages about eight points, eight rebounds and two blocks per game for his career, but he appeared in just 31 games last season and his numbers were down to the tune of 5.6 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per contest.

Aside from Robinson, the Knicks' only other established center is 2021 second-round pick Jericho Sims, who averaged only 2.0 points and 3.3 rebounds per game last season.

The Knicks already have most of their roster set for next season, but it seems likely that their No. 1 remaining priority in free agency will be finding quality center depth at a cheap price.

As for Hartenstein, he goes from one championship contender to another, as the Thunder had the best record in the Western Conference last season at 57-25.

Hartenstein joins a core of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, Alex Caruso, Lu Dort and Isaiah Joe, giving OKC a potentially strong chance to go the distance next season.

After finishing the 2023-24 season with the New York Knicks, center Precious Achiuwa could be on the move.

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Knicks did not extend a $6.2 million qualifying offer to Achiuwa before Saturday's deadline, making him an unrestricted free agent this summer. New York would've had the chance to match any offer he received from other teams if the qualifying offer was extended.

The Knicks acquired Achiuwa along with star swingman OG Anunoby in a December trade with the Toronto Raptors. The center appeared in 49 games for New York with 18 starts and averaged 7.6 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.1 blocks while shooting 52.5 percent from the field in 24.2 minutes of action.

Achiuwa emerged as a key contributor when the Knicks lost center Mitchell Robinson to foot surgery. He averaged 12.2 points and 10.7 rebounds in 38.7 minutes during the month of February. His playing time diminished when Robinson and backup center Isaiah Hartenstein got healthy.

ESPN front office insider Bobby Marks told Stefan Bondy of the New York Post that Achiuwa's estimated free agency value is "$8 million-$10 million in annual salary." Hartenstein is also an unrestricted free agent this summer, and both he and Achiuwa reportedly could benefit from a weak free-agent class at the center position.

At 24 years old, Achiuwa is a promising young talent whose best years are still ahead of him. He will certainly receive a strong amount of interest on the open market.

Even though the New York Knicks find themselves bumping against the second apron after trading for Mikal Bridges and agreeing to a new deal with OG Anunoby, there is going to be a lot of focus on Julius Randle's future with the organization.

Per SNY.tv's Ian Begley, the acquisition of Bridges "did not trigger a distinct plan" to trade Randle.

The Knicks sent Bojan Bogdanović, five first-round draft picks, a pick swap and a second-round pick to the Brooklyn Nets for Bridges. Since New York is taking on more money than it sent out, the team is hard-capped at the $178.7 million first apron.

New York also got a five-year, $212.5 million deal done to retain Anunoby before free agency began.

Per ESPN's Bobby Marks, the Knicks are currently $9 million below the second apron with four roster spots available.

Isaiah Hartenstein is set to be an unrestricted free agent and could be the odd-man out, barring someone like Randle being traded. The Athletic's Fred Katz noted the Knicks have been trying to find ways to include additional money in the trade with the Nets that would make it easier for them to retain Hartenstein.

Randle missed the final 49 games last season, including the playoffs, due to a shoulder injury that required surgery. He was named to the All-Star team for the second time in his career prior to the injury.

The 29-year-old is owed $28.9 million next season and has a $30.9 million player option for 2025-26. He is eligible to sign an extension for up to four years and $181.5 million starting on Aug. 3, per Marks.

Randle has been a steady performer during his five seasons with New York. He's averaged 22.6 points on 45.0 percent shooting, 9.9 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game in 330 games as a member of the Knicks.

NBA fans already got to see Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton face off against New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson, but it seems the two might be taking their rivalry to the wrestling mat.

At WWE Smackdown on Friday, Haliburton, who walked out with Logan Paul, found Brunson in the crowd and the two engaged in a staredown.

Tyrese Haliburton vs. Jalen Brunson 🤯@NBA #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/UKqEjXRHCy

— WWE on FOX (@WWEonFOX) June 29, 2024

.@LoganPaul 🤝 @TyHaliburton22

Watch out, @TyHaliburton22! @jalenbrunson1 is watching you 👀#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/4bHSyz1HcS

— WWE (@WWE) June 29, 2024

The two stars also got in the ring, with Brunson taunting Haliburton with a chair:

THIS IS AWESOME#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/lrQPRRmqb9

— WWE on FOX (@WWEonFOX) June 29, 2024

Brunson later tweeted that it was a "childhood dream" of his to participate in SmackDown.

Just lived out a childhood dream and yes the hand fine lol yall can relax 😂

— Jalen Brunson (@jalenbrunson1) June 29, 2024

Haliburton also chimed in, saying he's the "true king of the ring."

True King of the Ring👑 @TheGarden https://t.co/bgTKHiKLK1

— Tyrese Haliburton (@TyHaliburton22) June 29, 2024

While it would make for some great entertainment, it's probably best if Haliburton doesn't get heavily involved in SmackDown considering he's gearing up to compete at the Paris Olympics with Team USA.

While Haliburton and Brunson stepped into the ring together for a brief period, fans already got quite the battle in the NBA playoffs last month.

The series between the Pacers and Knicks went to seven games with Indiana ultimately pulling away to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals. Brunson was electric throughout the playoffs and averaged 29.7 points against the Pacers before suffering a broken hand in Game 7. Haliburton averaged 21.3 points per game in the series.

While Brunson outperformed Haliburton, it wasn't enough to get past Indiana.

But a friendly rivalry between Brunson and Haliburton seems to be forming as the two young stars enter their primes. Both put up career numbers this season and are seemingly on their way to being two of the next big stars in the NBA.

Maybe wrestling careers could come for Brunson and Haliburton after their playing days are over.

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Listen to Ring Rust Radio for all of the hot wrestling topics. Catch the latest episode below.

The New York Knicks traded up in the second round of the 2024 NBA draft, selecting Marquette guard Tyler Kolek with the No. 34 overall pick.

The Portland Trail Blazers initially held the pick, although the Knicks sent out multiple future second-round selections in order to receive No. 34 (via ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski).

Kolek thrived with the Golden Eagles, improving his scoring average in each season that he spent with the team. Knicks fans were excited about the choice.

Love Kolek for the Knicks. Needed a backup PG that we can trust to handle the ball when Brunson comes out of the game. One of the best in the country last few years. Keep cookin’ Leon!!!

— Unbiased Ev (@DoubleVodkaDon) June 27, 2024

The Knicks love Tyler Kolek. There was a ton of noise they’d take him first round, and he’s a steal at this point. Bucket-getter who can reliably run the show too. Great depth behind Brunson and with so many wings they can maybe play both at once. pic.twitter.com/blUm1tYhFb

— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) June 27, 2024

Tyler Kolek is quite literally perfect for the Knicks in every single way.

— Ryan Hammer🔨 (@ryanhammer09) June 27, 2024

The Knicks have been enamored by Tyler Kolek for weeks and did the most due diligence talking with him, sources told me. For New York to get him at 34 on the board is a slam dunk. Kolek goes from 2023 Big East Tournament Most Outstanding Player at MSG to calling it his home.

— John Fanta (@John_Fanta) June 27, 2024

Tyler Kolek to the Knicks I like it. Seems like great value.

— Playoff Shaun (@iHateShaun) June 27, 2024

BIG EAST ➡️ BIG APPLE.

WELCOME TO THE NEW YORK KNICKS, TYLER KOLEK! pic.twitter.com/niRGQdBp8U

— The Strickland (@TheStrickland) June 27, 2024

In his senior campaign at Marquette, Kolek averaged 15.3 points and 7.7 assists per game while shooting 49.6 percent from the field and 38.8 percent from three. He was similarly impressive as a junior, as he was named the 2022-23 Big East Player of the Year.

His age likely contributed to his second-round status, as he's already 23 years old. His measurements at the NBA draft combine weren't eye-popping either, as his 6'1.25" height represented the seventh-lowest mark among all participants.

Still, the Knicks were able to select him before he slipped past his projected draft range. In the latest second-round mock draft from Bleacher Report's Jonathan Wasserman, Kolek was chosen with the No. 33 overall pick.

"Underwhelming measurements (6'1", 6'3" wingspan) and athletic testing will make teams view Tyler Kolek as a backup," Wasserman wrote. "But he'll still draw plenty of interest, particularly from playoff teams that will see a guard who can instantly provide pick-and-roll offense, spot-up shooting and toughness."

The Knicks' bench backcourt may be a bit crowded following the team's blockbuster trade for Mikal Bridges on Tuesday, as Kolek will likely battle with Donte DiVincenzo and Miles McBride for backup guard minutes.

The former Golden Eagle should still benefit from learning under Jalen Brunson, with the All-Star point guard coming off a breakout season despite his smaller frame compared to his peers.

Kolek joins French wing Pacome Dadiet, the No. 25 overall pick, in the Knicks' 2024 draft class.

The New York Knicks have bolstered their point guard depth with the addition of Tyler Kolek, who entered the 2024 NBA Draft after a breakout senior season at Marquette.

The Knicks traded up to No. 34 overall for Kolek, sending the Portland Trail Blazers future second-round picks, per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

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Bleacher Report Draft Expert Jonathan Wasserman's Scouting Report

Player: Tyler Kolek

Position: PG

Height: 6'3"

Pro Comparison: Jason Preston

Scouting Report: There is debate about how much of Tyler Kolek's scoring will carry over to the pros. But his pick-and-roll playmaking and passing are considered translatable, and he should still be able to threaten defenses as a shotmaker with his catch-and-shoot game and floater.

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Knicks Active Roster and 2024-25 Salary (Expiration Year)

Pacome Dadiet, SF/PF: Rookie-scale contract

Tyler Kolek, PG: TBD

OG Anunoby, SF: $36.6M (2029)

Julius Randle, PF: $30.3M (2026)

Jalen Brunson, PG: $25M (2026)

Mikal Bridges, SF: $23.3M (2025)

Josh Hart, SF: $18.1M (2028)

Mitchell Robinson, C: $14.3M (2026)

Donte DiVincenzo, SG: $11.4M (2027)

Miles McBride, PG: $4.7M (2027)

Mamadi Diakite, PF: $2.3M (2025)

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Free Agents

Alec Burks, SG: UFA

Isaiah Hartenstein, C: UFA

Precious Achiuwa, PF: RFA

Jericho Sims, C: Club option

DaQuan Jeffries, SG: Club option

Shake Milton, SG: UFA

Jacob Toppin, SF: RFA

Charlie Brown Jr., SG: RFA

Duane Washington Jr., PG: RFA

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After beginning his college career with George Mason in 2020-21, Kolek transferred to Marquette and served as a three-year starter for the Golden Eagles.

Kolek developed his shooting throughout his time in Milwaukee. He improved to 49.6 percent shooting from the field in 2023-24 as he recorded a career-high 15.3 points per game.

For the second consecutive season, Kolek also sunk at least 38 percent of his shots from deep on at least three attempts per contest. He additionally distributed at least 7.5 assists for the second straight campaign.

Kolek upped his production to an average of 18.7 points through three NCAA Tournament games.

The senior point guard worked as a key operator of Marquette's pick-and-roll to help lead the Golden Eagles to the team's first Sweet Sixteen appearance since 2013.

Pick and roll clinic by Tyler Kolek helping Marquette advance to the Sweet 16 with a win over Colorado. Got anywhere he wanted on the floor, finishing skillfully and delivering phenomenal passes. 21 points, 11 assists, 5 rebounds for the projected first round pick. pic.twitter.com/agPWRwUgtt

— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) March 24, 2024

Kolek then showed off his improved shooting at the 2024 NBA Combine, where he went 17-for-25 on a spot-up shooting exercise and recorded 12 consecutive threes on the star drill, per Ben Steele of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

The big-game playmaking ability Kolek showed during the NCAA Tournament, as well the improved shooting he demonstrated at the combine, could make him a key depth piece for the Knicks.

The New York Knicks are trying to iron out a few details in their trade for star forward Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets to retain Isaiah Hartenstein.

Per The Athletic's Fred Katz: "The Knicks have searched for ways to add money to the trade in the two days since agreeing with the Nets, according to league sources. Tossing in one minimum salary would not fill in the difference between Bridges, who makes $23.3 million, and [Bojan] Bogdanović, who makes $19 million."

Katz noted the Knicks are trying to avoid hard-capping themselves in the deal to try to bring Hartenstein back in free agency. However, Katz noted the Knicks have grown more "pessimistic" about the prospect of Hartenstein returning.

With the Nets agreeing to a four-year, $100 million contract with Nic Claxton on Wednesday, Hartenstein is the top center remaining on the market. Katz noted that in addition to the interest he'll generate on the open market, Hartenstein "also has a nine-figure contract he can point to as a comp" thanks to Claxton's deal. The highest that the Knicks can offer him is $72.5 million over four years.

After agreeing to acquire Bridges, the Knicks are also set to re-sign swingman OG Anunoby to a massive five-year, $212.5 million contract, which adds to their financial constraints this offseason.

In 2023-24, Hartenstein played 75 games with 49 starts and averaged 7.8 points, a career-high 8.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks. He averaged 12.1 rebounds in the month of January while playing in an expanded role after starting center Mitchell Robinson suffered a fractured ankle.

If the Knicks are unable to bring back Hartenstein, Michael Scotto of HoopsHype reported on Wednesday that "several centers are on their radar as potential replacements." Scotto named free agents Jonas Valančiūnas, Andre Drummond, Goga Bitadze and Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards as targets for New York to sign or acquire in a trade.

The Knicks are hoping to contend for a title next season, so they will need to have a contingency plan in place if they lose Hartenstein to the open market.

There is plenty of reason to be excited if you are a fan of the New York Knicks.

Jalen Brunson developed into a star. The team went deeper in the playoffs than some expected, reaching the conference semifinals before injuries doomed them in Game 7 against Indianapolis.

Tuesday night, word broke that the team was trading for the Nets' Mikal Bridges. Wednesday, reports that the team was retaining OG Anunoby, their prized deadline acquisition, on a five-year, $212.5 million deal.

Entering the NBA Draft, everything was coming up Knicks.

Except, that is, an under-the-radar report from SNY's Ian Begley.

NYK free agent C Isaiah Hartenstein is expected to be a top target for several opposing teams in free agency. With the offers that Hartenstein is expected to command on open market, it’s become increasingly unlikely that NYK will be able to retain Hartenstein, per SNY sources

— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) June 26, 2024

Hartenstein does not have the star power of Brunson, Anunoby, or Bridges, but he was important to what the Knicks accomplished last season. He may have only averaged 7.8 points but tallied 8.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and just over one block per game.

Add to that his above-league average of 64.4 percent from the paint and you have a player whose contributions transcended his own, individualistic point total.

Hartenstein held down the center position when Mitchell Robinson underwent season-ending surgery in May.

Losing him creates questions about the team's depth at one of the key positions on the floor.

Robinson figures to return, especially if Hartenstein walks in free agency, but there is a decided lack of quality depth behind him. Begley and John Flannigan of Yahoo reported that one potential target for the Knicks is Magic big man Goga Bitadze.

Bitadze came off the bench for Orlando last season, averaging five points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and less than one steal per game. He is an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

The return of Anunoby and the addition of Bridges makes for one of the best duos in the league on the wings while enhancing the team's defensive efforts. It creates a ton of buzz in the Big Apple and excitement among fans, as it should.

Without adequate play from the center position, and backup if Robinson is not available at any point in the season, the team could still struggle even with the headline-grabbing upgrade of Bridges and the return of Anunoby, especially if head coach Tom Thibodeau takes a more defensive approach to this year's squad.

OG Anunoby will return to the New York Knicks after all.

Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported that Anunoby "intends to sign a five-year, $212.5 million contract to return to the New York Knicks."

Free agent F OG Anunoby intends to sign a five-year, $212.5 million contract to return to the New York Knicks, sources tell ESPN. Deal will include a player option and a trade kicker. pic.twitter.com/q5VcjOeryW

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 26, 2024

This comes just two days after Anunoby opted-out of his $19.9 million player option for the 2024-25 season. The new deal will pay him $42.5 million per season and he will now join the newly acquired Mikal Bridges with a Knicks team that finished second in the Eastern Conference in 2023-24.

Fans took to social media to express optimism at the Knicks chances to contend in 2024-25 and beyond.

For the first time in a while I can confidently say the Knicks are a title contender, Bing bong

— Junkie (@go_crazy_on_em) June 26, 2024

Knicks are winning a title. I can’t believe this is my life. LFG!!! https://t.co/h4dlQpUQZH

— Mike Ryan (@mikey_ryan11) June 26, 2024

Again, congratulations to Boston for winning the NBA title. Parade was great. Worthy champions.

Their time is done. #Knicks

— Jason Smith (@howaboutafresca) June 26, 2024

https://twitter.com/JasonJason333/status/1806093153155571836

Knicks front office is really going for it. Their fans have to be happy,

— Nek (@nekhoops) June 26, 2024

On back to back days we learned that someone demanded a trade to the Knicks and another opted against multiple max contract offers to be a Knick.

Btw those 2 players are 2 of the most coveted in the league.

— DP (@CAPTAINPEARLNYK) June 26, 2024

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OG ANUNOBY IS BACK.

HIT THE DAMN MUSIC. pic.twitter.com/oyvDcKxILB

— KnicksMuse (@KnicksMuse) June 26, 2024

Opposing scorers having to deal with Bridges and OG guarding them all game #Knicks pic.twitter.com/4jRhPY8sus

— Knicks Memes (@KnicksMemes) June 26, 2024

the knicks are gonna be so good next season

— 北村 (@JimiHNDRXX) June 26, 2024

The 24-25 Knicks look SCARY! 🔥 https://t.co/ETWCITHawm

— Mannie. (@PremierVee) June 26, 2024

The Knicks are going to beating teams 112-85

— Eric Negrón (@Negron1107) June 26, 2024

Knicks coming out the East. Book it now!

— 🌊🌊🌊 (@_Willywaves) June 26, 2024

Honestly regardless of price, this Knicks team is going to be awesome and will be a blast to watch next season!

— hayden gray (@haydenandsons) June 26, 2024

the tone for the offseason being set is 5 firsts for mikal bridges and $212 million for OG anunoby. the knicks cooked both trade and free agent markets and the draft hasnt even happened yet

— Pablo EscoBrown (@DorisPerc) June 26, 2024

Leon Rose, Worldwide Wes, Thibs have built a great foundation, established a culture here with the Knicks I love it 👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/jjcmd3AElj

— Bankai 🇪🇨🇵🇷 (@New_Tape_City) June 26, 2024

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Anunoby was traded to the Knicks during the 2023-24 NBA season and averaged 14.1 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 23 games with the team. He elevated in the postseason, averaging 15.1 points, six rebounds and 1.1 assists in nine games. A hamstring injury in the second round derailed his postseason, but he and the Knicks will now hope that more deep playoff runs are in the future.

The Knicks went 50-32 and earned the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference. This came despite Anunoby missing significant time in the regular season as well. When he was in the lineup, New York went 27-6.

With Anunoby returning and Mikal Bridges joining the team, New York appears to be even more ready to compete for a NBA Championship. The Boston Celtics will be a formidable foe as the current defending champion, but the Knicks moves make it a worthy adversary and makes things interesting heading into 2024-25.