New York Knicks: Getting to know new addition Ryan Arcidiacono

The New York Knicks signed former Villanova star, Ryan Arcidiacono to a 10-day contract to try and help with depth as COVID continues to decimate NBA rosters.

Arcidiacono went undrafted before landing with the Chicago Bulls in 2017 where he averaged 4.8 points and 2.2 assists over a four-year span and also became a fan favorite.

Will this signing solve the Knicks’ problems so far? Most likely no, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get to know him.

Who are the New York Knicks getting in Ryan Arcidiacono?

Before getting noticed by the Knicks, Arcidiacono started six games for the Maine Red Claws, the G Leauge team for the Boston Celtics. In those six games, he averaged 12.7 points, 8 assists, and 5.7 rebounds.

Arcidiacono has a great shot to stick around after his short-term contract(s) are up because the Knicks are so thin at the point guard position… yes it’s 2022 and still remains a problem.

Kemba Walker has been dealing with an injury and his status appears unknown, Derrick Rose is already out for an extended period and we saw how short of a leash Miles McBride has. Not saying it will definitely happen, but don’t be surprised if Arcidiacono ends up taking that 17 man roster spot.

Ryan Arcidacano is certainly famous in the college basketball world, especially in the Philadelphia/Delco area. He started 4 years at Villanova University where he helped bring home a National Championship in 2016 by dishing the game-winning assist to Kris Jenkins to beat North Carolina.

What intrigues me about Arcidiacono is his playstyle and how well it matches up with how Tom Thibodeau coaches. He won’t wow you in the box score by putting up 20+ points, but he sure will do the dirty work, dive on loose balls, make that extra pass, get teammates involved, and most importantly defend/give effort.

We all know the Knicks have done a complete 180 in terms of defense from just a season ago. Where they once ranked among the league’s best, they now are a below-average defense, letting opposing teams enjoy Madison Square Garden instead of fear it.

One of the main parts about defending is simply giving effort, and if there is anyone who appreciates hard work, it’s us New York fans. His gritty plays he makes could not only get the fans going but light a fire under his teammates and give energy where at times it is missing with the Knicks.

IF Ryan Arcidacano earns some minutes I believe he could become quite popular amongst the Knicks die-hard fanbase.