Training Camp Will Massively Improve the New York Knicks’ Depth
Early predictions, media days, and roster adjustments are all signals that the 2026-27 NBA season is right around the corner. For the defending champion New York Knicks, training camp will provide an opportunity to figure out what works to address the roster’s depth. These next two to three weeks will serve as the foundation for […] The post Training Camp Will Massively Improve the New York…
The 2026-27 NBA season looms on the horizon, and for the New York Knicks, the upcoming training camp will be crucial in bolstering the team's roster depth. The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) introduced stricter financial limits in 2023, known as "aprons," which have made it harder to retain the same roster year after year. While the defending champions made necessary roster moves over the years, they must remain mindful of the NBA's financial constraints.
Knicks owner James Dolan emphasized the importance of staying below the second apron, stating, "I'll write as big of a check as possible, but I can't write a check that goes into the second apron." Most key rotation players re-signed over the summer, including Landry Shamet, Jose Alvarado, and Jordan Clarkson. However, the central position remains a challenge, as the Knicks lost backup centers Mitchell Robinson and Ariel Hukporti.
Mitchell Robinson signed with the Boston Celtics for a three-year, $47.4 million deal, with a player option in the third season. In his place, the Knicks signed 21-year-old French forward Mohamed Diawara to a four-year, $11.2 million contract. Veteran center Andre Drummond also signed a one-year deal for $3.9 million.
The Knicks can still sign one more player before exceeding the salary cap. Around 5 NBA players were signed to non-guaranteed training camp deals. Bruce Brown, John Konchar, and Drew Eubanks, all solid role players, will compete for the remaining contracts. Coach Mike Brown, a former second overall pick, will have numerous options to choose from, such as James Wiseman and 26-year-old Ochai Agbaji.
Head coach Brown's ability to play versatile scorers and strong defenders off the bench is invaluable. The main issue remains the fifth spot in the rotation, and Eubanks has the best chance to secure that position due to his size and defensive abilities. However, the final player signed could significantly impact the team's success, as seen in the case of Landry Shamet last season.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
