The NBA is currently in a quiet phase, yet the New York Knicks are staying active.
Recently, the team secured Mikal Bridges with a four-year, $150 million extension, maintaining their core that led them to the Eastern Conference finals last season. New Knicks head coach Mike Brown has also brought in former Sacramento Kings assistants Riccardo Fois and Charles Allen. Additionally, he is reportedly interested in current Charlotte Hornets assistant Chris Jent. After bringing in Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele this offseason, the Knicks still have the capacity to add another veteran for the minimum and a rookie player.
As we await the potential extensions for Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson, let’s delve into reader inquiries regarding the offseason and what lies ahead. This marks Part 1 of a two-part mailbag.
Connection Between Mikal’s Extension and Giannis’ Situation?
There’s an understanding that Leon Rose and his team have been closely monitoring Giannis Antetokounmpo’s situation in Milwaukee since before the offseason began. Many in the league speculate that the Knicks are looking to acquire star players, and while no opportunities have yet materialized, the possibility remains if the right circumstance arises.
Was Mikal’s Extension Timely?
It seems strategic that the Knicks finalized Bridges’ extension before August 6. A player who signs an extension cannot be traded for six months, which means if Bridges had waited until after that date, he would not be trade-eligible until the next summer, beyond the February trade deadline. By securing the extension earlier, the Knicks retain the flexibility to trade him if necessary.
Are the Knicks Considering Ben Simmons?
Simmons has been mentioned as a potential option for the Knicks, especially regarding their minimum roster slot. However, I personally have reservations about him joining the team. While he could provide size and create an interesting defensive lineup alongside players like Bridges and Anunoby, his shooting limitations would require the Knicks to significantly alter their offensive strategy.
Mitchell Robinson’s Extension Prospects
Robinson’s case largely hinges on the Knicks’ concerns about his injury history. Currently, he is eligible for an extension but will play out the upcoming season on a $12.9 million expiring contract. The Knicks may be hesitant to offer a lucrative deal considering his injuries, while also weighing their future salary commitments.
Who Will Be the Backup PG?
It seems the Knicks have yet to fill the backup point guard position for next season. I wouldn’t expect Tyler Kolek to take on that role right away, given the team’s high expectations. Instead, the team is likely to tap into the veteran’s minimum market for a seasoned point guard, keeping an eye on names like Simmons, Malcolm Brogdon, Delon Wright, and Monté Morris.
