The New York Knicks have already bolstered their frontcourt in free agency, adding a key depth piece as they prepare to make a run at the NBA Finals next season.
New York signed Olympic standout and former Philadelphia 76ers forward Guerschon Yabusele to a two-year, $12 million deal Tuesday.
However, the team also showed interest in center Deandre Ayton following his contract buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
The former No. 1 overall pick ultimately signed with the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday, agreeing to a two-year, $16.6 million contract that includes a player option for the 2026-27 campaign.
The Knicks could have paired Ayton with Karl-Anthony Towns in their frontcourt, with Mitchell Robinson serving as the club’s backup center. Instead, the team went in a different direction, and Ayton opted to join Luka Doncic and LeBron James in Los Angeles.
MORE: Former Knicks big man linked to Warriors in free agency
Ayton spent the past two seasons with the Trail Blazers, appearing in just 95 regular-season games due to injuries. During that span, he averaged 15.6 points, 10.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.9 blocks and 0.9 steals across 31.3 minutes per contest.
Now, the 26-year-old will look to revitalize his career with the Lakers, who were in desperate need of a center after trading away Anthony Davis last season in a blockbuster deal centered around Doncic.
The Knicks may not be finished adding to their frontcourt this offseason. The club reportedly has an interest in veteran big man Al Horford, though they may be priced out as several contenders are expected to pursue him.
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