The dream starting five for the New York Knicks 5 years from now
Knicks’ dream power forward in 2028: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Will Giannis Antetokounmpo be the Knicks’ big star trade? Fans should surely hope so. The 28-year-old has already won two regular season MVPs and one NBA Finals MVP, so who knows what else he will add to his resume in the next five years.
Antetokounmpo is currently eligible to sign an extension with the Bucks, and he’s made it clear that won’t happen unless Milwaukee can still compete for a championship. He’ll be eligible to enter free agency in 2026, but there’s always the option he could request a trade before then.
New York has had its eye on Joel Embiid, but Antetokounmpo’s playoff history is one of the reasons why he’d be a better option for the Knicks. Antetokounmpo will be 33 in 2028 and still be regarded as one of the best players in the NBA. He knows a thing or two about winning championships and, at this point, could’ve already led New York to its third.
Knicks’ dream center in 2028: Jericho Sims
Mitchell Robinson’s four-year deal he signed last offseason goes through 2025-26. He’s the Knicks’ defensive anchor but has publicly complained about his limited offensive role. However, there’s reason for that. It wouldn’t be a shock if he enters free agency in 2026 and signs with a new team.
Jericho Sims’ two-way contract was converted to a standard deal in 2022. The soon-to-be 25-year-old is New York’s third center on the depth chart and is out of reach of Tom Thibodeau’s tight rotation. The next couple of years will be crucial to Sims’ development, and within five years, he could be in a position to assume starting center duties. He’s already a quality rim protector and rebounder.
Sims would be the lowest-paid starter of the group but would be another sign of the Knicks’ strength to develop within.