The Knicks’ offseason activities have been heavily focused on finalizing key moves, including signing and extending contracts like that of coach Mikal Bridges. While the team doesn’t yet have a complete roster, they have open slots to add one of their second-round draft picks and bring in a veteran on a minimum contract. This veteran signing has sparked speculation, as there are several intriguing candidates who could fill various team needs.
One option is to use the veteran spot on the highest impact player available this season—Ben Simmons. According to Clutch Point’s Brett Segel, the Knicks are a top contender to acquire Simmons, the former number one overall pick, Rookie of the Year, and perennial All-NBA defensive first-teamer. However, Simmons’ performance has declined since injuries and a holdout season, with his offensive game lacking aggression and his defense no longer at its peak. Still, Simmons represents the most significant potential upside among available veterans and could be a valuable piece if he regains form.
Another option is Malcolm Brogdon, who would bolster the Knicks’ guard rotation. New York has improved their guard depth with players like Jordan Clarkson, Jalen Brunson, Miles McBride, and Tyler Hall. Brogdon, once a Sixth Man of the Year candidate, offers reliable playmaking and a solid shooting touch but is likely past his prime. While useful as insurance in the backcourt, the team might find better value signing a veteran in a different position.
Russell Westbrook is also discussed as a possible veteran addition, although his chances appear slim given the current guard depth. Despite a decline in athleticism, Westbrook brings high energy, defensive effort, and relentless pace, which could provide a spark off the bench. Still, it’s hard to envision a role for him with three guards ahead in the rotation.
At center, the Knicks might look to add depth behind Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, and Ariel Filloy. Thomas Bryant is a candidate who offers offensive rebounding and rim protection, providing insurance in case of injury. Bryant has bounced around several teams but proved valuable in clutch moments against the Knicks in recent playoffs. Other center options include Bol Bol and Bismack Biyombo, especially if Bryant chooses to go overseas.
Finally, the Knicks could use more pure shooting off the bench. Landry Shamet stands out as a strong bench contributor from last season, boasting a 38.5% career three-point shooting percentage. Shamet is versatile, able to guard multiple positions, and showed clutch shooting in the Eastern Conference Finals. Another defensive-minded guard option is Deron Wright, who was a reliable role player for the Knicks last season and remains available.
Fan Take: This offseason maneuvering signifies the Knicks’ ambition to blend promising youth with experienced veterans to make a serious playoff push. For basketball fans, the choice of which veteran fills the final roster spot could transform the Knicks from a strong team into an elite contender, demonstrating how crucial smart veteran signings are in today’s NBA.
