{
  "id": 15454705,
  "title": "Knicks Bench Faces One Clear Downgrade This Season",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/18/knicks-bench-faces-one-clear-downgrade-this-season",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-18T17:02:33.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nba/knicks-bench-faces-one-clear-downgrade-this-season-12585661"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The New York Knicks are set to unveil their first championship banner in 53 years, with most of the 2020-21 title squad returning. However, when examining the second unit, the bench appears to have undergone a shift. According to Ian Begley of SNY's The Putback, the Knicks have largely retained their roster, with the exception of Mitchell Robinson. Begley noted that replacing Robinson with Andre Drummond doesn't significantly alter the team's depth. He acknowledged that Robinson's absence creates a challenge, as there's no perfect backup center for him. Yet, he affirmed that the front office's confidence in the team remains unwavering. The offseason moves mirror this sentiment. Robinson signed a three-year, $47.4 million contract with the Celtics, while Drummond committed to a one-year, $3.9 million deal. Despite the change, Drummond maintains his rebounding prowess and improved his free throw shooting from last season. The guards—including Landry Shamet, Jose Alvarado, and Jordan Clarkson—renewed their commitments. However, Miles McBride remains uncertain as he is in the final year of his contract without an extension. With Drummond taking over Mitchell Robinson's minutes, the Knicks' bench seems poised for another successful season.",
  "summary": "The Knicks bench looks familiar heading into the title defense, but one big piece won’t be easy to replace this season.",
  "key_points": [
    "Knicks bench faces clear downgrade without Mitchell Robinson",
    "Andre Drummond replaces Robinson, maintains rebounding skills",
    "Guards recommit to Knicks, Miles McBride's future uncertain"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}