After a loss in the Eastern Conference finals last year to the Indiana Pacers, the New York Knicks have been active this offseason.
They signed veteran sixth man Jordan Clarkson and former Celtics and 76ers stretch big Guerschon Yabusele. The front office then decided on a new coach, hiring Mike Brown, formerly with the Sacramento Kings. More recently, the Knicks added guards Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet. With so much focus on the backcourt, Knicks fans are justified to ask: Do the Knicks have enough frontcourt depth?
Outside of Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson, New York lacks another proven center. Former second-round pick Ariel Hukporti has appeared in only 25 career games and may not be ready for a rotation role. Yabusele can play as a stretch five, but gives up size to traditional centers. With Precious Achiuwa leaving in free agency, the Knicks appear thin at the position.
If Brogdon and Shamet both stick on the roster, New York will have no open roster spots. That could complicate a potential move for Thomas Bryant, the best available big man on the market, who recently worked out for the team. Centers Trey Jemison III and 12-year veteran Alex Len have also worked out for the Knicks recently.
Despite already rostering guards Clarkson, Miles McBride, Brogdon, Shamet, Pacome Dadiet and Tyler Kolek, the Knicks appear set to open the 2025-26 season light on frontcourt options.
With Bryant unsigned and reportedly interested in New York, the Knicks’ decision to pass on him — at least for now — remains puzzling.