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Reevaluating the highs and lows from Knicks’ 2021 offseason

By Max LoSardo

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 08: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks reacts against the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on April 08, 2022 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 08: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks reacts against the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on April 08, 2022 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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Quentin Grimes, New York Knicks. (Photo by Troy Wayrynen/USA TODAY Sports)
Quentin Grimes, New York Knicks. (Photo by Troy Wayrynen/USA TODAY Sports) /

25th pick: Quentin Grimes

34th pick: Rokas Joukabitis

36th pick: Deuce McBride

58th pick: Jericho Sims

Grade: A

Ending on a good note, the front office has proven that they have an exceptional ability to draft well. Last year was no exception.

Trading down, the Knicks nabbed Quentin Grimes (and the pick they dealt for Cam Reddish), who shot 38% from three and played terrific defense.

It’s hard to evaluate rookies with their inconsistent playing time, but Grimes clearly displayed the talents and intelligence that are required to be in the NBA. Expect to watch his minutes and role grow as he gets some more reps.

If New York enters trade talks for any star-caliber player, Grimes will be on the top of any team’s wish list. The Knicks should do everything they can to keep him.

New York also hit a home run with Sims. Simply put, drafting a rotation player in the second round, let alone with the 58th pick, is a success. Sims established himself as a reliable backup center in the latter half of the season, and regardless of what happens with Mitchell Robinson this offseason, he will have a place on the team.

Don’t expect to see Lithuanian Joukabitis for at least another season, but by all accounts, he had a good year away from the team.

Fan-favorite McBride put up video game numbers in the G League this season, averaging 27.8 points with 10.8 assists and 4.7 rebounds.

McBride played limited minutes with the Knicks, so it’s still too early to say what role he can play. He had a phenomenal game against the Rockets and consistently put in effort on defense, but he never got the chance to find consistency in his shot, as he only made 30% of his field-goal attempts.

Despite a lot of fans’ wishes, McBride is certainly not ready to start, and most likely not ready to enter the rotation consistently. But he’s shown that he’s worth New York investing its time in him.

(It’s worth noting that Pelicans defensive breakout star Herb Jones was taken with the 35th pick, and the Knicks along with 28 other teams in the league are kicking themselves for not snatching him up.)

The last offseason ended up a punt. A lot of this summer will be consolidating veteran deals to clear the way for successful young talent in an offseason where New York will have to choose a direction. The Knicks have their work cut out for them.

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