So far, all signs are pointing towards Malcolm Brogdon not only making the Knicks' final roster but playing a key role in the rotation as well. The Knicks should have a deep regular-season rotation, but where the Brogdon signing will show its true value will be in the playoffs, where the Knicks lacked ball-handling and ball-security last season.
Mike Brown has said he intends to have his rotation consist of nine of 10 players this season. If the Knicks do end up signing both Brogdon and Landry Shamet, who is also currently on a non-guaranteed deal, their rotation will likely consist of Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, Josh Hart, Miles McBride, Guerschon Yabusele, Jordan Clarkson, and one of Brogdon or Shamet.
The season is long and unpredictable, so the rotation will likely shift as players deal with injuries and rest days. That said, Brogdon is the only true point guard on the roster after Brunson, and whatever key role he plays during the regular season, it will become more important come the playoffs.
The Pacers exposed the Knicks
The Pacers exposed the Knicks in several ways when they defeated them in the Eastern Conference Finals last season. First, they exposed their lack of depth, or perhaps exposed a coach who wasn't willing to use his depth.
They also exposed a team that struggled to deal with intense pressure, which led to numerous careless turnovers and the Knicks playing sped up. Mike Brown wants the Knicks to play fast, but not sped up. They need players who can deal with the pressure and intensity of playoff basketball without playing outside of their game or turning the ball over at an alarming rate
That is where Brogdon will shine
Josh Hart was quick to note that Brogdon isn't someone who plays sped up. He is a veteran in this league who has played in several big games during his time with the Milwaukee Bucks, Pacers, and Boston Celtics. He will be extremely valuable in moments where Brunson needs to rest.
Brown has also noted that Brogdon will provide significant value to this team, saying, "he has a steadiness about him that is fantastic to be around." There are plenty of other parts of Brogdon's game that will be useful as well. He is a very good 3-point shooter as well as a plus defender. At the end of the day, though, it will be his steadiness and ability to handle the rock that will fill the biggest void for this team.