Knicks point guard Kemba Walker named as camp coach amidst uncertainty
Ever since Kemba Walker was sidelined for the remainder of the season to focus on getting healthy and to prepare for a potential trade, there has not been much talk about the point guard. In fact, according to the New York Post, New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau said he has not seen Walker at New York’s training facility.
In March, Thibodeau responded to social media criticism from fans for mistreating Walker and not allowing the young stars on the team to develop.
"“It’s where we are in society today. Social media,” Thibodeau said. “Look, hey, it’s part of the game. We love it. It drives the game. It’s as popular as it’s ever been. But to me, I don’t like anything that eats away at the fabric of the team.”"
Walker has not played since February. His last game was against the Brooklyn Nets, where he had 9 points and 3 assists. He is now back on the court, but this time as a coach for Basketball without Borders Europe 2022 (BWB).
"BWB Europe 2022 will bring together 62 of the top high-school age boys and girls from 24 countries across Europe to learn directly from current and former NBA, WNBA and FIBA players, legends and coaches and compete alongside their peers from across the region. The campers and coaches will also take part in life skills, leadership development and community service programming."
Walker, Knicks Associate Head Coach Johnnie Bryant, and Atlanta Hawks’ Danilo Gallinari are among a few of the people who were named coaches for BWB Europe.
What is next for New York Knicks point guard Kemba Walker?
Walker was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder by the Boston Celtics and was then picked up by New York after being waived/bought out by Oklahoma City. He played in a total of 37 games for the Knicks in 2021-22, averaging a career-low 11.6 points and 3.5 assists per game.
Besides being a coach for BWB, there has not been much said about Walker’s future with New York. He is owed $9.2 million in 2022-23 from the two-year, $18 million deal he signed last August. It is unlikely that the Knicks will pursue a buyout, and due to this, the solution will be a trade.
It is sad that what was supposed to be Walker’s homecoming season ended in an uncertain future with New York. Hopefully wherever he ends up next year, he can bounce back to the four-time All-Star that fans grew to love.
