This time last week, fans were preparing to learn what the New York Knicks were going to do with the No. 11 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. It turns out that after not being able to trade for Jaden Ivey, New York’s front office shifted its attention to free agency.
Everything is going to come to a head on Thursday at 6 p.m. ET once free agency begins. The unanswered questions will finally start to have answers.
And right now, Knicks fans should have plenty of questions dating back to draft night when all the chaos first began. Clarity is on its way, but first, let’s dive into the confusion.
3 questions the New York Knicks will answer in free agency
3: What players are going to join the Knicks in free agency?
If you’ve been spending too much time focusing on Brunson, here’s your reminder that New York can also sign other players once free agency begins. Brunson obviously holds the most importance, but after his deal is secured (if it is), the Knicks could make a few other signings.
New York could waive Taj Gibson and the $5.2 million that he’s going to make in 2022-23 to clear additional cap space. After trading Nerlens Noel, New York could pursue Mo Bamba if he doesn’t stay with the Orlando Magic.
Bamba is a name to watch. Then there’s also Brooklyn Nets guard Patty Mills, who declined his $6.2 million option to enter free agency. Per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, a return to the Nets hasn’t been ruled out, but he could come off the bench as a 3-point shooter for the Knicks.
If Brunson doesn’t sign with New York, the Knicks could make a push for Tyus Jones or Bradley Beal, who declined his $36.4 million option. The expectation is that Beal will sign a five-year max extension with the Washington Wizards, though, or he could sign a four-year contract elsewhere.
It might be a good idea to prepare yourself for the unexpected, especially after draft night. But, of course, the end goal is Brunson.